Priests, Deacons and Bishops

Becoming a Deacon in Aotearoa New Zealand is usually the final step towards becoming a priest. The responsibilities of deacons are to preach the Word of God and give homilies. They can baptise people into the Church, bless marriages and conduct funeral services.

The Priest is called to be the spiritual leader of a parish. His first responsibility as a priest is to preach and teach the Gospel. He leads the sacramental celebrations, especially the celebration of the Eucharist, the two Sacraments of Healing and Baptism. He is to build up the community of the parish leading the people to God and helping them grow in holiness.

The Bishop is called to be the leader of a diocese. His role is to be like Christ as teacher, priest and shepherd of all the People of God in his diocese. He is given the power to minster all the sacraments including Confirmation and Holy Orders.

What is the name of the Sacrament by which men are ordained as bishops, priests or deacons?

Sacrament of the Holy Orders.

1. Sign- laying on of the hands and anointing with chrism.

2. Lectionary Readings for the Sacrament.

3. Prayer of Consecration proper to each ordination.

a. Bishop

b. Priest

c. Deacon

The deacons who are about to be ordained, lie down and do certain postures and gestures as a sign of a transformation of a man into a representative of Christ on Earth. The priest puts the oil on the palms of the deacon's hands. The deacon is given a bible because he will be a minister of a Church. In some Churches, the priests are approached and are given a kiss on their hand.

Prayer of Consecration

Almighty Father,

Grant to this servant of yours

the dignity of the priesthood.

Renew within him the Spirit of Holiness.

As a co-worker with the order of bishops

may he be faithful to the ministry

that he receives from you, Lord God,

and be to others a model of right conduct.

May he be faithful in working with the order of

bishops,

so that the words of the Gospel

may reach the ends of the earth,

and the family of nations,

made one in Christ,

may become God's one, holy people.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.