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HOLY ORDERS 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. The ministerial priesthood differs in essence from the priesthood of all believers because it confers a sacred power for the service of the faithful. The ordained ministers exercise their service for the people of God by teaching, divine worship and pastoral governance. Since the beginning, the ordained ministry has been conferred and exercised in three degrees:
The Bishop receives the fullness of Holy Orders, which integrates him into the episcopal college and makes him the visible head of the Particular Church entrusted to him. Priests are called the Bishop's prudent co-workers and deacons are ordained for tasks of service of the Church. If you think you may have a calling, or you just want to deepen your faith, you can speak to your parish priest. There is also a useful website with events and contacts: www.invocation.org.uk |