Holy Orders

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a sacred calling by which men are ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops, sharing in the priesthood of Jesus Christ and serving the Church through a life of commitment, ministry, and sacrificial love. Through this sacrament, the mission given by Christ to His apostles continues to be carried out in the Church to this day.

As taught by the Church, “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, 1536)

At St. Joseph Parish, we give thanks for the priests and deacons who serve us by:

Proclaiming the Word of God
Celebrating the Sacraments
Shepherding the faithful in parish life
Offering themselves in service, prayer, and charity

Holy Orders is not a role one claims, but a divine calling to be discerned with prayer and guidance. “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.” (CCC 1578)

Is God Calling You?

If you or someone you know is discerning a call to the priesthood or the permanent diaconate, we encourage you to contact our parish office to speak with our pastor. We would be honored to support you in your journey of vocational discernment.

We also invite you to learn more by visiting the Diocese of Sacramento Vocations Office.

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What is the Sacrament of Holy Orders?
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