Ordination at the
Fond du Lac Cathedral
“Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.” – 1 Timothy 4:14
Welcome to the Sacrament of Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders, also known as Ordination, is the Church’s way of setting apart individuals to serve Christ and His people in a unique and sacred ministry. Through the laying on of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, a man is consecrated as deacon, priest, or bishop.
This sacrament is both a gift and a responsibility, entrusting the ordained with preaching the Word of God, celebrating the sacraments, and shepherding the faithful in holiness and service.
Who Can Receive Holy Orders?
- Individuals who have been called by God and discerned by the Church.
- Those who are prepared to live lives of prayer, service, and sacrifice.
- Candidates who have undergone spiritual formation and theological study.
What Happens During Ordination?
The rite of Ordination is celebrated within the Mass and includes the following:
- Presentation and Election – The candidate is presented to the bishop and affirmed by the Church.
- Promise of Obedience – The candidate pledges obedience to the bishop and his successors.
- Laying on of Hands and Prayer of Consecration – The bishop lays hands upon the candidate, invoking the Holy Spirit for ministry.
- Investiture with Vestments – The newly ordained is clothed in the vestments proper to his office.
- Anointing of Hands – For priests, the bishop anoints their hands with sacred chrism as a sign of their sacramental service.
The Effects of the Sacrament
- A permanent change, marking the soul with the character of Holy Orders.
- Grace to serve God’s people faithfully and with humility.
- Authority to proclaim the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and shepherd the Church.
- Deeper union with Christ the High Priest in His mission of salvation.
Requesting Information About Ordination
If you or someone you know is discerning a call to the priesthood or diaconate, we encourage you to contact our parish office for guidance and support. The Church walks with those who feel called to explore this sacred vocation.
For further information about the Sacrament of Holy Orders, please contact the parish office at
(920) 921-3363.
What is Ordination?
Ordination is the Sacrament of Holy Orders, in which the Church, through the laying on of hands and prayer, calls upon the Holy Spirit to set apart a man for service as a deacon, priest, or bishop.
Why is Ordination important?
Ordination entrusts the ordained with a lifelong mission to serve God’s people by proclaiming the Gospel, administering the sacraments, and shepherding the Church. It is a sacred commitment to live as a servant of Christ and His Church.
Who can be ordained?
Individuals who are called by God, discerned by the Church, and have completed the required spiritual, pastoral, and academic formation may be ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops.
What are the different levels of Holy Orders?
- Deacon – Called to serve the Church in charity, proclaim the Gospel, and assist in liturgy.
- Priest – Celebrates the Eucharist, offers Reconciliation, anoints the sick, and shepherds parish communities.
- Bishop – Oversees dioceses, ordains priests and deacons, and carries the fullness of the apostolic ministry.
What happens during the Ordination ceremony?
The rite includes the candidate’s promises of obedience, the bishop’s laying on of hands, the prayer of consecration, the anointing of hands, and the presentation of vestments and symbols of ministry.
Can a man be ordained more than once?
Yes, but only once to each level of Holy Orders. A man may first be ordained as a deacon, later as a priest, and eventually, if chosen, as a bishop. Each step is permanent and leaves an indelible spiritual mark.
How does someone know they are called to Ordination?
Discernment happens through prayer, spiritual direction, and guidance from the Church. Those who sense a call are encouraged to speak with a priest, vocations director, or spiritual advisor.
How can I learn more about the process?
If you or someone you know is discerning a call to ordained ministry, please contact our parish office for more information and support.
For further details, call (920) 921-3363.
