Holy Orders, a sacred rite, is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is a solemn and joyous occasion in which the candidate is consecrated and empowered to serve God and His people in a special way.

We are blessed to have clergy who have responded to the call to Holy Orders and serve our community with dedication and devotion. Our priests and deacons are ordained ministers who provide pastoral care, celebrate the sacraments, and lead our parish in worship and prayer. They are spiritual guides and shepherds who accompany us on our journey of faith and offer support and guidance in times of need.

While women are not ordained as priests in the Catholic Church, there are diverse opportunities for women to serve in various ministries and vocations, both within and outside of religious orders. Women religious, including nuns and sisters, play vital roles in the life of the Church through their dedication to prayer, service, and ministry. They serve as educators, healthcare providers, social workers, advocates for justice, and spiritual guides, embodying the charisms of their respective religious communities.

The discernment and preparation for Holy Orders are extensive and rigorous, involving years of study, prayer, and formation. Candidates undergo theological education, pastoral training, spiritual direction, and discernment under the guidance of their bishops and spiritual directors.

If you or someone you know is discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, we invite you to explore the call to Holy Orders and consider how God may be inviting you to serve Him and His people. Our Parish community is here to support you in discernment and prayer as you seek to discern God's will for your life and respond generously to His call to serve. 

For more information on the priesthood and religous life, please visit the Archdiocese of San Antonio Vocations Office webpage.