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Sacraments   >   Holy Orders

Jesus continued His tour of all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is good but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest." (Matthew 9:35-38)

The sacrament of Holy Orders confers upon men the grace and spiritual power to celebrate the sacraments as ordained ministers of the Catholic Church. The same sacrament is administered in three degrees, each with a higher sacramental effect for the ordained minister: first deacon, then priest, and finally bishop. The bishop receives the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders, and is able in turn to administer all seven sacraments, through his succession to the apostles. The priest shares in the ministry of the bishop and serves at his discretion, administering the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Marriage, Anointing of the Sick and, with special permission, Confirmation. The deacon is ordained for service to the church, and can administer the sacraments of Baptism and Marriage. Deacons can be married at the time of their ordination. (CCC 1536 - 1600).

If you feel called to the vocation of the priesthood, diaconate, or a religious order, Contact Us or visit the Diocese of Sacramento website.