Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a sacred calling through which men are ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops. Through this sacrament, they share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ and serve the Church through a life of ministry, commitment, prayer, and sacrificial love.
Through Holy Orders, the mission entrusted by Christ to His Apostles continues to be carried out in the Church today.
“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. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.”
— Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1536
Serving the Church
At St. Joseph Parish, we give thanks for the priests and deacons who faithfully serve our parish community by:
- Proclaiming the Word of God.
- Celebrating the Sacraments.
- Shepherding the faithful in parish life.
- Offering themselves in service, prayer, charity, and pastoral care.
Holy Orders is not simply a role or profession. It is a divine vocation that must be prayerfully discerned with the guidance of the Church.
“No one has a right to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders. Indeed, no one claims this office for himself; he is called to it by God.”
— Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1578
Is God Calling You?
If you or someone you know is discerning a vocation to the priesthood or permanent diaconate, we encourage you to contact the Parish Office and arrange a conversation with our pastor.
Our parish would be honored to support you through prayer, spiritual guidance, and the process of vocational discernment.
Contact the Parish Office at (707) 447-2354.
Learn About Holy Orders
Watch this short video to learn more about the Sacrament of Holy Orders and the vocation of bishops, priests, and deacons.