"Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time:  thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. " (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1536)

There are three degrees to Holy Orders: the diaconate, the presbyterate, and the episcopate. The order of the diaconate are those who have been ordained to service within the Church through the ministry of charity, word, and liturgy. The order of the presbyter are those who share in the ministry of the bishop in sanctifying, teaching, and shepherding the people of God. The order of the episcopate are those who have been called to the fullness of ordained ministry and carry on the apostolic ministry within the Church. 

If you feel that you might be called to be a deacon or priest, please contact the parish office, (504) 242-7554 and speak to one of the members of the parish clergy. You can also find more information at the Office of Vocations, here. 

Women who may feel called to consecrate themselves to Christ may do so either as a consecrated virgin or by joining a religious community. Men, who do not feel called to diaconate or priesthood, may also considered becoming a religous brother. You can learn more information on religious vocations and about a myriad of communities here.