Holy Orders is the sacrament through which men are ordained as deacons, priests or bishops — called by God to serve His Church and His people. It is not a career choice but a vocation: a calling that is discerned slowly, prayerfully and with the support of the Church community.
At Our Lady of Lourdes, we are blessed to be served by priests of the Spiritan Congregation — men who have answered that call and given their lives to God and to the communities they serve. Their example is a living reminder of what it means to say yes to a vocation.
Could you be called?
If you have ever felt a quiet stirring — a sense that God might be calling you to something more — it is worth taking that seriously. Many men who go on to be ordained describe a long, gradual sense of being drawn, rather than a single dramatic moment.
You do not need to have everything figured out. Discernment — the process of prayerfully exploring a vocation — is exactly that: an exploration. It is not a commitment, and there is no pressure.
The three degrees of Holy Orders
Deacon — Deacons are ordained ministers who assist at Mass, preach, baptise, witness marriages and serve the poor and marginalised. Some deacons go on to be ordained as priests; others, known as permanent deacons, remain in this ministry for life — often alongside family and working life.
Priest — Priests are ordained to celebrate Mass, administer the sacraments, preach the Gospel and lead and serve their parish community. Priesthood is a total gift of self — a life lived in service of God and others.
Bishop — Bishops are ordained to lead and guide the wider Church, overseeing a diocese and carrying on the mission of the Apostles.
Taking the next step
If you feel called to explore a vocation to the priesthood, permanent diaconate or religious life, the best first step is a conversation. Speak to one of our priests after Mass — they will listen without pressure and help you find the right path forward.
You can also contact the Diocese of Westminster’s Office for Vocations directly for guidance and support:
Diocese of Westminster — Office for Vocations rcdow.org.uk/vocations
For those interested in the Spiritan Congregation specifically, visit spiritans.co.uk
Lay Spiritans
You do not need to be ordained to be called to a deeper commitment to faith and service. The Spiritan family also welcomes lay associates — men and women who share in the Spiritan charism and mission alongside their everyday lives. If this interests you, speak to Fr Patrick or contact the parish office for more information.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit.” — John 15:16