MISSIONIS SUI IURIS FUNAFUTINAE
(Missio Sui Iuris of Funafuti)
Christ the King Roman Catholic Church
Teone, Funafuti, Tuvalu
P.O. Box 58
Holy Order
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission of Christ is continued in His Church. It is the means by which men are ordained as bishops, priests, or deacons, empowering them to serve the People of God through teaching, sanctifying, and governing. Holy Orders is essential for the life and ministry of the Church.
The Sacrament of Holy Order and Its Requirements
Requirements for Holy Orders:
A. Spiritual and Personal Requirements
1. Baptism and Faith:
• Only baptized men can validly receive the sacrament of Holy Orders (CCC 1577). The candidate must have a deep, living faith and a commitment to the Church.
2. Discernment of a Vocation:
• The individual must experience a call to ordained ministry, discerned through prayer, spiritual guidance, and affirmation by the Church.
3. Moral Integrity and Maturity:
• Candidates must demonstrate a virtuous life, emotional stability, and the capacity to lead others in faith.
4. Commitment to Celibacy (Latin Rite):
• Priestly candidates in the Latin Rite must freely embrace celibacy as a sign of their total dedication to Christ.
5. Commitment to Prayer and Service:
• A willingness to live a life of prayer, obedience, and service to the Church is essential.
B. Canonical and Educational Requirements
1. Proper Formation:
• Candidates must undergo rigorous formation, typically in a seminary, which includes:
• Philosophical and Theological Studies: To ensure they understand the faith and can teach it effectively.
• Spiritual Formation: To deepen their relationship with God and cultivate a prayerful life.
• Pastoral Training: To prepare for ministry through practical experiences.
2. Freedom from Impediments:
• Impediments, such as previous marriages not annulled, lack of maturity, or unresolved canonical penalties, must be addressed before ordination.
3. Examination and Approval:
• The candidate must be formally approved by the bishop or superior after completing the required formation and demonstrating readiness for ordination.
4. Reception of Minor Orders (if applicable):
• Before ordination to the priesthood, candidates typically are ordained as transitional deacons.
C. Ordination Rite
1. Laying on of Hands:
• The bishop lays hands on the candidate, invoking the Holy Spirit and consecrating the individual for their specific ministry.
2. Prayer of Consecration:
• The Church prays for the candidate, asking God to grant them the grace and gifts needed for their ministry.
3. Anointing:
• Priests and bishops are anointed with chrism oil, signifying their consecration to God.
1. Biblical and Theological Foundations
• Instituted by Christ:
Jesus instituted Holy Orders at the Last Supper when He commanded the Apostles to “Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). He entrusted them with the authority to continue His mission.
• Continuity with Apostolic Ministry:
Holy Orders perpetuates the ministry of the Apostles, who were given the authority to lead, teach, and sanctify the Church through the power of the Holy Spirit (John 20:21-23).
• Three Degrees of Holy Orders:
• Bishop (Episcopate): Successors of the Apostles who oversee dioceses, ordain priests and deacons, and teach the faith.
• Priest (Presbyterate): Co-workers with the bishops, who celebrate the Eucharist, administer the sacraments, and shepherd the faithful.
• Deacon (Diaconate): Ministers who assist bishops and priests, particularly in works of charity, proclaiming the Gospel, and liturgical roles.
​
2. Key Doctrinal Points
• Sacramental Character:
Holy Orders imprints an indelible spiritual mark on the soul, configuring the ordained to Christ in a unique way (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1581-1583).
• Service to the Church:
The sacrament is oriented toward serving the Church, enabling ordained ministers to act in the person of Christ, especially in celebrating the Eucharist (CCC 1551).
• Threefold Mission:
Ordained ministers are called to teach (proclaim the Gospel), sanctify (administer sacraments), and govern (guide the faithful).
• Celibacy (Latin Rite):
In the Latin Church, celibacy is required for priests and bishops, signifying total dedication to Christ and the Church (CCC 1579). Permanent deacons may marry before ordination but must remain celibate if widowed.
​
3. Effects of Holy Orders
1. Spiritual Mark:
• The sacrament imparts an indelible character, permanently configuring the ordained to Christ.
2. Grace for Ministry:
• Holy Orders provides the grace necessary to fulfill the duties of ordained ministry with faith, charity, and perseverance.
3. Role in the Church:
• The ordained serve as leaders, teachers, and sanctifiers, ensuring the sacramental life and unity of the Church.
​
4. Pastoral Implications
The Church supports ordained ministers through ongoing formation, spiritual direction, and fraternity. The laity are called to pray for and support their clergy, recognizing their vital role in the life of the Church.
​
Conclusion
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is essential for the Church, ensuring the continuation of Christ’s mission through ordained ministry. By fulfilling the requirements and embracing the grace of ordination, those called to Holy Orders become living signs of Christ’s love and service, shepherding the People of God toward holiness and eternal life.
