The Sacrament of Holy Orders has three parts to it.

The first is the Order of Deacon. There are two types of deacons. All priests are first ordained as deacons. Most receive this order the year before becoming priests. The other type of deacon is the permanent deacon. Single and married men can be admitted to this order. After receiving the order of deacon, a man cannot marry or remarry – even if his wife should die. Deacons can administer sacramentals and blessings. They can baptize and they can, under some circumstances, witness marriages. They also can preach at Mass and conduct prayer services including Funerals outside of Mass.

The second part of the Sacrament of Holy Orders is when priests are when priests are ordained. In celebrating this Rite, men receive a permanent spiritual mark, called a character, signifying that they represent Jesus’ presence in the Church.

The third part of the Sacrament of Holy Orders is the Order of Bishop. This is an exclusive group of men chosen by the Holy Father in his role as Vicar of Christ. Because our Archdiocese is so large, we have five bishops – the archbishop and four assistant bishops whom we call auxiliary bishops. We are also privileged to have Bishop Joseph Martino, the retired Bishop of Scranton living and working in our Archdiocese. He is the one who confirmed our children two weekends ago.

If you feel you may be called to a vocation as a priest, religious sister (or brother), or permanent deacon; a good first step is to not be afraid of the possibility and pray for the gift of an open heart.  Next, discuss your feeling with a priest, religious or deacon with whom you feel comfortable. 

General Information on Vocations to the Permanent Diaconate:

                In the Archdiocese of Philadelphia contact:
                Deacon Michael Pascarella
                Associate to the Vicar for Clergy for Permanent Deacons
                telephone: 215-587-4532
                email: [email protected].