Holy Orders

The priest is ordained for a community of persons as servant to that people.  He is sent by the bishop and charged to ensure that the mission of Christ to teach, govern and sanctify is fulfilled in a particular place for a particular period of time.  He never exercises this ministry from a position of power or status.  He always functions collaboratively with a plurality of ministers specifically commissioned for their particular ministry.

By ordination, the priest alone presides over the Eucharist which is celebrated by the entire community.  Even though others may be designated to do so, it is the Parish priest or deacon who ordinarily preaches, baptizes, witnesses marriages and conducts funerals.  The pastor is assigned by the bishop to coordinate and oversee all the various ministries of the parish.

Pray for vocations to all these ministries,  but especially pray for vocations to the priesthood.  If you feel you may be called, contact the Diocesan Office of Vocations for more information: www.richmonddiocese.org/vocations.