In traditional Catholic teaching, the hierarchy of clergy is divided into minor and major orders, each with distinct roles and responsibilities within the Church. These orders form a structured path for those pursuing a vocation in the Church’s ministry, culminating in the sacrament of Holy Orders.
Minor Orders
The minor orders traditionally include:
- Porter: Responsible for the physical care of the church building, including opening and closing the doors, and guarding the entrance.
- Lector: Tasked with reading Scriptures during liturgical services and often with instructing catechumens.
- Exorcist: Charged with the duty of expelling evil spirits and assisting with catechetical instruction.
- Acolyte: Assists in the liturgy, particularly by serving at the altar and helping the deacon and priest.
Major Orders
The major orders encompass:
- Subdeacon: Aids the deacon and priest, especially in the preparation of the altar and the elements for the Eucharist.
- Deacon: Assists the priest in liturgical functions, preaches the Gospel, and performs works of charity and service.
- Priest: Administers most of the sacraments, preaches, leads the congregation in worship, and acts as a spiritual shepherd to the faithful.
- Bishop: Possesses the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders, overseeing multiple congregations, ordaining new clergy, and serving as the chief shepherd and teacher of the diocese
This traditional structure emphasizes a progression of service and responsibility, with each order preparing the clergy for greater roles in the sacramental and pastoral life of the Church.
The following sections provide examples of how Jesus Christ, the High Priest, fulfilled the roles … Read the rest