Holy Orders is one of two Sacraments of Communion of Service, with the second being the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Both of these sacraments demonstrate a lifetime vocational commitment.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a vocational sacrament that bestow Gods’ divine grace to one’s lifetime commitment to the priesthood that includes the hierarchical ordination of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. Through this sacrament, the mission entrusted by Jesus Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church through the granted gift of "sacred power" to bishops and priest to lead the Church and administer the sacraments until the end of time: thus, it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry (CCC,1536). In the receipt of Holy Orders, deacons are ordained to a vocation of service, both in assisting priests and bishops in their priestly participation and service to members of the community.
Individuals who feel a calling to religious life other than priest or deacon, may consider options for which the Sacrament of Holy Orders is not bestowed, such as that of a religious brother, nun, or sister. The path to each of these opportunities and focus, purpose, and lifestyle is, in part, based on the particular religious order selected, as is the period and process of preparation that can spans from three to nine years before making a final, lifetime commitment. Of particular note, while the terms, nun and sister, are commonly used interchangably, there are important distinctions. For example, in the Catholic Church, the term, nun, refers to those who commit to a consecrated life of prayer, meditation and reflection; while the term, sister, typically reflects a commitment to a consecrated life of service (e.g., teaching, healthcare).
Regardless, bishops, priests, and religious brothers, nuns, and sisters commit a vow of celibacy/chastity, poverty, and obedience, referred as evangelical counsels, that represent an essential component of their respective consecrated life and commitment to God, the Church, prayer and service.
As a Catholic community, we recognize the great need for bishops, priests, deacons, and religious brothers, nuns, and sisters. Individual and group prayers for these vocations are important and something we can incorporate into our daily ritual of prayer. Included here is a link to several vocational prayers and relevant information sources: Vocational Prayers and Information Sources.
Individuals contemplating a path toward becoming a priest or deacon and those contemplating commitment to consecrated life as a Catholic brother, nun, or sister, are invited to meet with Father Rob, by contacting the Parish Office to schedule a meeting to discuss their exploration, support options, and to learn about resources to aid in their discernment. (Telephone: 985-497-3412, Email: [email protected])