I. Why is this sacrament called "Orders"?
The term "order" in the Church is derived from Roman society, where it referred to a civil group or governing body. In the Church, it specifically refers to distinct ranks, such as bishops, priests, and deacons, known as "ordines." The sacrament of ordination sets individuals apart for a special service to the Church, empowering them to act in Christ's name, particularly through the laying on of hands, which confers the grace needed for their ministry.

II. The Sacrament of Holy Orders in the economy of Salvation
In the Old Testament, the tribe of Levi was chosen for priestly service, though their sacrifices could not bring ultimate salvation, which was achieved only through Christ's sacrifice. Christ is the one true priest, offering a unique sacrifice for humanity. While all baptized Christians share in Christ’s priesthood, those ordained as bishops and priests participate in a special way, serving the Church. These ministers act "in the person of Christ," representing Him in their service, particularly in the celebration of the Eucharist, which continues His mission of redemption.

III. The three degrees of the sacrament of Holy Orders
The sacrament of Holy Orders has three degrees: episcopal, priestly, and diaconal. Bishops receive the fullness of the sacrament, as they are successors to the apostles, responsible for governing, teaching, and sanctifying the Church. Priests are co-workers with bishops, sharing in Christ’s priesthood and serving the Church through preaching, shepherding, and celebrating the Eucharist. Deacons, who are ordained to serve, assist bishops and priests in liturgies and charitable works, embodying a distinct service role in the Church. Each degree is integral to the Church’s mission of teaching, sanctifying, and serving the faithful.

IV. The celebration of this Sacrament

Ordination of bishops, priests, and deacons is a significant event for the Church, and it should be celebrated with as many faithful as possible. Ideally, it occurs on Sundays in the cathedral, during the Eucharistic liturgy, and with proper solemnity. The essential rite involves the bishop laying hands on the ordinand's head and offering a prayer asking for the Holy Spirit's grace for their ministry. Surrounding rites, such as the presentation and election of the ordinand, instruction by the bishop, and the Litany of the Saints, signify the Church’s involvement in the selection process. After consecration, symbolic rites like anointing with chrism, giving of the book of the Gospels, and the presentation of sacred items (such as the ring or chalice) further express the ordained person’s mission.

V. Who can confer this Sacrament?

Christ appointed apostles, and through them, he continues to guide the Church through bishops who carry on his mission. Only bishops, as successors of the apostles, can validly confer the sacrament of Holy Orders in all three degrees, ensuring apostolic succession.

VI. Who can receive this Sacrament?

Only baptized men can validly receive Holy Orders, as Jesus chose men to be his apostles. This decision has been upheld by the Church, meaning women cannot be ordained. No one has the right to be ordained; it is a call from God. Those who believe they are called must submit their desire to the Church’s authority, which has the right to call and ordain. In the Latin Church, men called to the priesthood are generally celibate, with celibacy signifying their dedication to God and the Church. In the Eastern Churches, while bishops are celibate, married men can be ordained as deacons and priests, though those ordained cannot marry afterward.

VII. The effects of the Sacrament of Holy Orders

The Indelible Character
Holy Orders configures the recipient to Christ as a servant of the Church, enabling them to act in Christ's role as priest, prophet, and king. Like Baptism and Confirmation, this sacrament gives an indelible spiritual character that cannot be undone or conferred temporarily. Even if an ordained person is removed from ministry, they cannot be considered a layperson because of the permanent nature of their ordination. The unworthiness of an ordained minister does not prevent Christ from acting through them, as the sacrament’s grace remains pure.

The Grace of the Holy Spirit
The grace of this sacrament configures the recipient to Christ as Priest, Teacher, and Pastor. For bishops, the grace empowers them to guide the Church with strength, wisdom, and love, especially for the poor and needy. Priests are given the grace to preach the Gospel, offer sacrifices, and renew the faithful. Deacons are strengthened to serve the Church in liturgy, preaching, and charitable works under the bishop’s authority. The ordained are called to conversion and holiness in their service, as expressed by the early Church fathers and saints.