Holy Orders

Called to serve the People of God

Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, the Church continues the apostolic ministry entrusted by Christ through bishops, priests, and deacons. A vocation to ordained ministry is first a call from God that is discerned in prayer and within the life of the Church.

Discerning a vocation

If you believe God may be calling you to the priesthood or diaconate, you do not need to have every answer before beginning the conversation. Prayer, the Eucharist, regular confession, spiritual direction, and service are important parts of discernment.

• Begin by speaking with one of the priests or deacons at St. Jude.
• The parish can help connect you with the appropriate archdiocesan vocation or formation office.
• Young men discerning priesthood are especially encouraged to seek guidance early rather than discern alone.