Holy Orders is a Sacrament through which bishops, priests, and other ministers of the Church are ordained, receiving the power and grace to fulfill their sacred duties. This sacrament ensures that the mission entrusted by Christ to His apostles continues to be practiced in the Church until the end of time, making it the sacrament of apostolic ministry. Holy Orders encompasses three degrees: the episcopate (bishop), the presbyterate (priest), and the diaconate (deacon). The priesthood is essential for the faithful to receive the sacraments instituted by Christ to bestow grace upon us. It is a sacred duty that requires good men of virtue.

If you have ever contemplated becoming a priest, consider asking a trusted priest to be your spiritual director. For those who cannot pursue the priesthood, it is our responsibility to fast and pray for holy clergy. Families should encourage vocations by discussing the importance of the sacraments for the salvation and sanctification of the world, as well as the special role of priests in providing these sacraments.

Ordination to the priesthood is always a call and a gift from God. Christ reminded His Apostles that they should ask the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into His harvest. Those who seek the priesthood respond generously to God's call, echoing the words of the prophet: "Here I am, send me" (Isaiah 6:8). This divine call can be recognized and understood through the daily signs that reveal God's will to those responsible for discerning the vocation of the candidate.

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Diocese of Boise Office of Vocations

The Deacon and Lay Ministries Formation program of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise offers comprehensive intellectual, spiritual, human, and pastoral training. This program is designed for individuals identified by their pastors and parish leadership as having the gifts and calling from God to serve the people of Idaho in public ministry.

Vocations to Holy Orders through the Permanent Diaconate