HOLY ORDERS
Holy Orders is a sacrament through which men are ordained as deacons, priests, and bishops, answering a divine call to serve the Church and its people. It is a sacred and profound commitment to a life of selfless service, leadership, and ministry. At our Parish, we honor and support those who discern a vocation to the priesthood or diaconate. We invite you to explore the significance of Holy Orders and the ways in which this sacrament enriches our Parish community and the wider Church.
Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.
Diaconate: The sacrament of Holy Orders confers the grace of the diaconate upon those called to serve as deacons. Deacons are ordained ministers who assist in the liturgy, proclaim the Gospel, preach, and engage in various works of charity and service. They are called to be servants of the Church, ministering to the spiritual and practical needs of the community. If you feel called to the diaconate or have any questions about this vocation, we encourage you to speak with our Parish clergy or contact our Parish office for further guidance and discernment.
Priesthood: The priesthood is a sacred vocation, representing Christ's presence among His people. Priests are ordained to offer the sacrifice of the Mass, celebrate the sacraments, preach the Word of God, and provide pastoral care and guidance to the faithful. They are entrusted with the spiritual well-being of the Parish community. If you are discerning a call to the priesthood or would like to learn more about the path to ordination, we are here to support and accompany you. Our Parish clergy and vocations team are available to answer your questions and assist you in discerning God's plan for your life.
Episcopate: The sacrament of Holy Orders also includes the episcopate, which refers to the office of bishop. Bishops are ordained to serve as shepherds, entrusted with the pastoral care, teaching, and governance of the Church. They are successors of the apostles, called to preserve and transmit the apostolic faith. While the process of becoming a bishop is distinct, the call to serve in this capacity is vital for the Church's leadership and unity.
For those who have chosen the ordained ministry, through sacramental ordination, they share in the priesthood of Christ in a special way. Their very beings are changed so that they can represent Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd for God’s people and Christ as the Head of the Church. They not only offer their own lives to the Father, as all Christians do, but they also stand before the Church and minister to the faithful as another Christ. Therefore, when they teach with the authority of the Church, Christ teaches; when they absolve sins in the sacrament of Reconciliation, then Christ forgives; when they offer the Sacrifice of the Mass then Christ offers that Sacrifice; when they love, support and care for God’s people entrusted to their care, then Christ is present with his people. (www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk)
For more information about the priesthood or becoming a permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Salford, please see below: