“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.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church) This sacrament is for those who choose to become a priest, bishop or deacon. Through ordination, they are able to perform sacred duties and serve the church community. This is not a sacrament that everyone partakes in, rather it’s one that people feel called to by God.
- But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 1 Peter 2:9
- Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. Acts 20:28
- I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19
NOTICE
Have you ever looked at your child or a parishioner in the pew at Mass and wondered, “I think they could have a call”? Having the eyes to see a potential vocation is the first step in helping others see it in themselves, too. Think about young people you know. Who would you want preaching, praying and guiding you in faith?
ENCOURAGE
It is not enough just to see a potential vocation. Men need help hearing the call of Christ, and taking a short moment to say, “You know, I think you would make a great priest one day,” or “Have you ever thought that the Lord might be calling you?” can go a long way to help them.
PRAY
This is probably the easiest and most widespread way of supporting vocations. Thanks be to God! If you haven’t already begun praying for an increase of priests and religious women and men from & for our Diocese, please do so!
If you are interested, have any questions, or would like to explore a vocations, please contact a priest or the Diocesan Office of Vocations.