Holy Orders

By our Baptism and Confirmation, we all belong to what is called the common priesthood. Each of us is called to holiness of life, to proclaim the gospel, and to love and serve those around us. Some people find themselves called to 'ministry' and to the 'ministerial priesthood'. Bishops are ordained with 'the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders' and are understood to be the successors of the apostles. Priests are ordained to be co-workers with their bishop and to assist him in the apostolic mission of his diocese. Deacons are ordained not to ministerial priesthood as such but 'unto the ministry'. They are to be a sign of Christ the Servant within the Church. They dedicate themselves to works of charity, taking special care for those who are sick or in need.