Holy Orders

Fr. Tony Ricard and Fr. Harry Bugler walk with St. Rita school children around the church.

" But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of His own, so that you may announce the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" (1 Peter 2:9)

Along with Marriage, the other sacrament of mission is Holy Orders. The Sacrament of Holy Orders is experienced in three degrees: the diaconate, the priesthood, and the episcopacy.

Through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, all of the faithful experience a universal call to holiness. In Holy Orders, however, men are consecrated to the service of all the faithful, nourishing them through Word and Sacrament.

For Those Interested in Holy Orders or Religious Life

Men interested in Holy Orders, either the priesthood or the diaconate, are encouraged to research and pray upon the matter patiently and fervently.

Women and men interested in consecrated life as a religious sister or brother are also encouraged to give prayerful consideration to the matter, and entrust it to the Lord.

We are each called to discern and live our vocation, embracing it as a gift from God—whether that vocation is to single life, married life, or the consecrated life.  If you feel you may be called to the priesthood, diaconate, or religious life, please feel free to contact Fr. Patrick to discern this special calling from God.

If you have any questions, please contact the Church Office at (504) 866-3621 or by email at office@stritanola.com.

Msgr. William Castel, pastor of St. Rita Parish from -1958, is pictured with various priests who served with him during his pastorate.