Holy Orders

Called to Serve God's People

Holy Orders is the sacrament through which men are ordained as bishops, priests, or deacons to serve the People of God and continue Christ's mission in the Church.

What Does the Catholic Church Teach?

"Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church." (CCC 1536)

Through ordination, a man receives a sacred responsibility to teach, sanctify, and shepherd God's people.

What Does Scripture Say?

"Do this in remembrance of me." (Luke 22:19)

"Fan into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands." (2 Timothy 1:6)

The New Testament shows Christ calling men to ministry and the Apostles ordaining successors through the laying on of hands.

Why Is Holy Orders Important?

Through bishops, priests, and deacons, Christ continues His work of teaching, sanctifying, and caring for His Church.

Interested in Learning More?

If you are discerning a vocation to the priesthood or diaconate, we encourage you to go to the Diocese of Pheonix Vocations page.