Holy Orders

Holy Orders is the sacrament instituted by Christ for the service of leadership in the Church. Jesus chose twelve Apostles, he called them to follow him. He taught them to appreciate the love of the Father and the secrets of his kingdom. After his resurrection, he sent them into the whole world to teach the good news and baptize and sanctify the believers through the power of the Holy Spirit.

As Catholics we are called to pray that God may continue to send many workers into the world to gather his abundant harvest. Our Archdiocese of Edmonton is committed to the pastoral priority of promoting a culture of vocations, particularly to the priesthood and consecrated life.

Catholic parents are encouraged to pray together as a family and educate their children to seek the will of God in their life as true joy and fulfillment. Our whole community will accompany young people in their discernment for signs of vocations. But young people who experience the desire of becoming a priest need the support and encouragement of a spiritual director and guide. Our archbishop writes that we must not hesitate and be shy about inviting young people to discern carefully the will of God with trust.

The greatest gift that our parish family can offer to God and the Church is one or more priests and religious sisters to fulfill the call of Christ. The journey to the priesthood starts with a single step led by a great hope. Jesus says, “Be not afraid.”