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: thus, it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1536)

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This is a sacrament, like Baptism and Confirmation, that leaves an indelible mark and can be received only once in a lifetime.

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The individual is called and set apart to act as guide and intermediary for God's people. Through an anointing and laying on of hands, the Holy Spirit imparts a greater share in the priesthood of Jesus, calling the individual to be a shepherd of the people and to offer the supreme sacrifice of the Eucharist.

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God calls all people to serve him through a particular vocation in life, be it marriage, consecration to a particular community as a lay person, or a ministry as a priest, deacon, or religious Brother or Sister. If you feel God is calling you to serve as a priest, deacon or religious, please reach out to the Vocations Office of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles by clicking here.

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