THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY ORDERS

What is ministry? Ministry means service. Christian ministry means to imitate Jesus, who said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45) We are all called to “ holiness.” It’s not an option – it’s a responsibility. By Baptism and Confirmation we are called to holiness and we answer that “general call” by our service – our ministry. There is also a “special call” that only a few receive. It’s a “call” to ordained ministry.

It’s the “call” to receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Various ordained ministries: Bishop………….. Episcopate Priest….………… Presbyterate Deacon………… Diaconate

Episcopate – Bishop Cardinals Archbishops Metropolitans Successors of the Apostles Shepherd of “the flock” – the followers of Jesus Leaders in worship and service Instructors in ways of salvation The Pope is the Bishop of Rome. Holds special leadership role among the Bishops. Vicar of Christ. Bishop – Ordinary of diocese (See) Auxiliary Bishop(s) – assist Co-adjutor – right of succession

Presbyterate – Priests (Presbyters) Monsignors Vicars (parochial) Canon Pastors Priests assist the Bishop. Usually put in charge of units within diocese called parishes. Also in education, hospital/prison chaplains, military, diocesan office holders. Two general types of Priests : Diocesan (secular) Under the Bishop Religious (order) Under the Abbot Belong to religious community Take vows (poverty, chastity, obedience) Many different kinds

Diaconate – Deacons Two kinds: Transitional Permanent Transitional Usually 1 year Single males Permanent Usually forever Single/married males Volunteer or full-time Various ministries Parish Hospital Prison Education

Universal Church – All Catholics Eastern/Western Church Served by Pope & Curia Coordinate Church activities on international level National Conference – Bishops of a nation Facilitates operations of Church at a national level Diocese – territorial cluster of parishes Administered by a Bishop with help of Diocesan Pastoral Team of ordained/lay associates Parish – local Catholic community Administered by Pastor with Pastoral Team of ordained/lay associates