Sacrament of Holy Orders

 

 # 1581 CCC

This sacrament configures the recipient to Christ by a special grace of the Holy Spirit, so that he may serve as Christ's instrument for his church. By ordination one is enabled to act as a representative of Christ, Head of the Church, in his triple office of priest, prophet, and king.

 

# 1585

The grace of the Holy Spirit proper to this sacrament is configuration to Christ as Priest, Teacher, and Pastor, of whom the ordained is made a minister.

 

   

    Father, you know all hearts.

    You have chosen your servant for the office of bishop.

    May he be a shepherd to your holy flock,

    and a high priest blameless in your sight,

    ministering to you night and day;

    may he always gain the blessing of your favor

    and offer the gifts of your holy Church.

    Through the Spirit who gives the grace of high priesthood

    grant him the power to forgive sins as you have commanded,

    to assign ministries as you have decreed,

    and to loose from every bond by the authority

    which you gave to your apostles.

    May he be pleasing to you by his gentleness and purity of heart,

    presenting a fragrant offering to you,

    through Jesus Christ, your Son...