Holy Orders
Holy Orders
Holy Orders is the sacrament through which Christ continues His ministry in the Church through bishops, priests, and deacons. By the laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration, a man receives the grace of the Holy Spirit to preach the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and faithfully serve God's people. This sacrament leaves an indelible spiritual character and strengthens the ordained to carry out Christ's mission in the Church.
The Catholic Church confers Holy Orders only on baptized men who have been called by God and recognized by the Church as suitable for ordained ministry. In the Latin Rite, priests freely embrace a life of celibacy as a sign of their complete dedication to Christ and His Church.
Discerning a Vocation
If you feel God may be calling you to the priesthood, diaconate, or religious life, we encourage you to speak with your parish priest or contact Fr. Ferry Galbert, Vocations Director for the Diocese of Bridgeport. He and the Vocations Office are available to accompany you through the discernment process.
To learn more about discerning a vocation, upcoming events, and seminary formation, visit the Diocese of Bridgeport Office of Vocations: