The Sacrament of Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is how the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church. It is the sacrament through which bishops, priests, and deacons are ordained and receive the power and grace to perform their sacred duties.
Here are some key aspects of this sacrament:
- Three Degrees: The Sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred in three degrees:
- Episcopate (Bishops): Bishops receive the fullness of the sacrament, making them successors of the apostles, with the authority to teach, sanctify, and govern the Church.
- Presbyterate (Priests): Priests are ordained to preach the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), and serve the faithful as co-workers with the bishops.
- Diaconate (Deacons): Deacons are ordained for service to the Church, assisting bishops and priests in the ministry of the Word, liturgy, and charity.
- Apostolic Ministry: Holy Orders is considered the sacrament of apostolic ministry, as it ensures the continuation of the mission Christ entrusted to his apostles.
- Ordination: The sacred rite by which Holy Orders is conferred is called ordination. The essential elements of the rite are the laying on of hands by the bishop and the bishop's specific prayer of consecration, asking God to grant the ordained the graces of the Holy Spirit required for their ministry.
- Indelible Character: Like Baptism and Confirmation, Holy Orders imprints an indelible spiritual character on the recipient, meaning that the ordination is permanent.
- Service: Those who receive Holy Orders are consecrated to serve the People of God. Their authority is exercised in the name and person of Christ.
- Eligibility: The Church confers the sacrament of Holy Orders only on baptized men, whose suitability for the exercise of the ministry has been duly recognized.
Have you or someone you know considered a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Maybe you just have questions? Please contact Father Scardella at the parish office 315-598-2118 or contact Father Jason Hage 315-470-1468 or email vocations@syrdio.org further details.