Holy Orders is the sacrament through which men are ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops to serve the Church in Christ's name. It confers a permanent spiritual character and grace to preach the Gospel, administer sacraments, and shepherd the faithful.
God calls every baptized person to holiness. The Second Vatican Council reminds us that all Christians share this universal vocation.
Marriage, religious life, and priesthood are different paths toward holiness. Each is a way to live out Christ’s love for God and others in the world.
“All the faithful are called to pursue holiness... pastors of the Church, especially bishops, should serve in humility and courage, modeling Christ the Shepherd.” (Lumen Gentium, 41)
Bishops, through the fullness of the priesthood, are called to serve as shepherds, teachers, and sanctifiers, offering their lives for the Church.
Priests, as coworkers with their bishop, are to live in deep communion, offering Mass, preaching, and serving God’s people with love and faithfulness.
Our parish is served by priests of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. If you feel called to serve God and others as an Oblate, speak to the pastor. He will help you discern your vocation and connect you with our vocations director or the diocesan vocations office.
If you're a young woman discerning religious life, we will gladly help you connect with women's religious communities, such as the Missionary Sisters of Christ the King.
“Ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into His harvest.” (Luke 10:2) – Pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life! Our world and Church deeply need them.
Let us pray for those called to serve
Mary, who raised your Divine Son with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, intercede for all young people, especially those clouded by doubt about their vocations. May the light of grace pierce their hearts so they may answer your Son’s call, especially those whom He is inviting to the priesthood and consecrated life. Amen.