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Sacraments
The Sacrament of Holy Orders
Understanding the three degrees: bishop, priest and deacon
What Is the Sacrament of Holy Orders?
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It has three degrees: the episcopate (bishop), the presbyterate (priest) and the diaconate (deacon).
Each of these degrees confers a specific mission in the service of the Church and the Christian community.
The Three Degrees of the Sacrament of Holy Orders
Bishop
The episcopal ministry goes back to the apostles and carries on their pastoral mission. The Pope is the first among the bishops.
Priest
Through ordination, the priest receives a specific power and a mission among his brothers and sisters in the faith.
Deacon
The diaconate is a ministry in its own right, focused on service and on assisting bishops in pastoral and social work.
Their Roles
The Bishop, Successor of the Apostles
The bishop is the true pastoral minister in the Church. His role goes back to the apostles, the first witnesses of Jesus. The Pope, as Bishop of Rome, is the first among the bishops and leads the college of bishops.
The Priest, Minister of Christ
Being a priest is not limited to a function or a ministry. Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, the priest receives a specific power and a mission. He acts in persona Christi (in the person of Christ), humbly serving the community and administering the sacraments.
The Deacon, Servant of the Church
The diaconate is a ministry in its own right, open to both single and married people. Deacons emphasize service, assisting bishops in pastoral and social work. Their ordination imprints an irrevocable sacramental character.
Need help?
Do you have any questions?
For any question about the Sacrament of Holy Orders or to prepare its celebration, contact your parish or the archdiocese.
The sacraments