The Sacrament of Holy Orders
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. ( cc 1536 )
Ordination...
Today the word "ordination" is reserved for the sacramental act which integrates a man into the order of bishops, presbyters, or deacons, and goes beyond a simple election, designation, delegation, or institution by the community, for it confers a gift of the Holy Spirit that permits the exercise of a "sacred power" (sacra potestas) which can come only from Christ himself through his Church. (cc 1538)
More on Ordination
Ordination is also called consecration, for it is a setting apart and an investiture by Christ himself for his Church. the laying on of hands by the bishop, with the consecratory prayer, constitutes the visible sign of this ordination.
Do you have a call to the priesthood or religious life?
Here at St Peter and St Paul's we would be truly blessed to assist you, a member of your family, or a friend in exploring further a call to serve in the Church. Speak to the priest after Mass if you would like to make an appointment to discuss further.