The Rite and Symbols of the Sacrament of

The Rite and Symbols of the Sacrament of Holy Orders

Step 1: 1. Presentation and election of the Ordinand (or candidate)

Meaning: Those to be ordained are called by their name for attendance. If present, the Ordinand answers: “Present”

Step 2: Instruction by the Bishop

Meaning: The bishop explains to those gathered the meaning of Ministerial Priesthood.

Step 3: Examination of the Candidate

Meaning: The bishop asks the Ordinands if they are ready and willing to serve.

Step 4: Litany of the Saints

Meaning: The bishop calls on the help and intercession of the saints.

Step 5: Laying of hands/ Act of consecration

Meaning: This is the most important step in the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

In This step the Ordinand kneels as the bishop lays his hands on their heads and gives them gifts of the Holy Spirit with the help of God.

After finishing the laying of hands, the bishop, together with the Ordinands, pray the Act of Consecration.

These are pictures of the Laying on of Hands

Step 6: Anointing with Chrism

Meaning: The hands of the priest are anointed as a symbol for his sharing in Christ’s priesthood.

Step 7: Giving of the signs and symbols of specific ministries.

Meaning: The ranks such as Deacon, Priest, and Bishop are given different symbolic gifts as a sign of their ordination.

Gifts given to the deacon:

Book of the Gospel A book of the gospel. As a sign of his mission To proclaim the good news.

Stole and Dalmatic A stole and a Dalmatic. The Main uniform Of the Deacon. The stole is Worn across the Left shoulder and Fastened at the Right.

Gifts given to the priest:

Paten and Chalice. This Enables the Priest to Celebrate the Holy Eucharist.

Stole and Chasuble This is the Uniform of the Priest. It is a stole And chasuble. Unlike The deacon, The stole is now Worn around the Neck and down his Chest.

Gifts given to the bishop:

Miter This is a miter. It is a Tall-pointed Head-piece Worn by Bishops only.

Bishop’s Ring This is the ring Worn by bishops Only. It is a sign Of his fidelity to The church.

Crozier This a crozier. It is given to Bishops during Ordination. It is The sign of a Bishop’s role as a Shepherd.

Book of the Gospel The bishop is Also given a Book of the Gospel as a sign Of his mission To proclaim the Word of God.

Let us now watch A short video-clip About Ordination.