We should note that the Sacrament of Holy Orders is (as the name implies) a calling to religious life and not every parishioner will go through this particular sacrament. Conversely, those admitted to the presbyterate (priesthood) will not go through the Sacrament of Matrimony, as their lives will be dedicated to the Catholic Church. Please make note that you can contact Father Elias Lopez to learn more on the Sacrament of Holy Orders. He will connect you with the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, where you can learn more about your journey through the presbyterate calling.

All Christians are called to be a gift of self to one another, and not just with family members and friends. Some of us are also called by God to be total gift of self to the People of God, the Church — as prayerful catalysts of spirituality and active love among other disciples of Jesus Christ.

“Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles is exercised in the Church until the end of time. It is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, Presbyterate and diaconate.” Catechism of the Catholic Church #1356 Those celebrating this sacrament are called forth by the community and ordained to serve in the community. They are supported through the prayers and faith of the community.

Today the word ordination is only used when referring to the sacramental act by which a man is integrated into the order of bishops, presbyters, or deacons.Through the laying on of hands, a consecratory, and an anointing for bishops and presbyters, the ordaining bishop(s) confer(s) a gift of the Holy Spirit that allows for the celebration of the sacraments proper to the respective order of bishop, priest and deacon.

Bishops, presbyters and deacons are ordained for different sacred ministries.

• Bishop: Direct successor of the Apostles. His principle task is to teach, sanctify and shepherd the members of the Church.

• Presbyter: Assists the bishops in their ministry, celebrates the Eucharist, administers the Sacraments and spreads the Good News.

• Deacon: Assists the bishops and priests. A deacon assists at the Eucharist, distributes Holy Communion, baptizes, blesses marriages, proclaims and preaches the Gospel, presides over funerals and above all, dedicates himself to ministries of charity.

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