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. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate. Baptized men may receive this sacrament through the office of deacon, priest, or bishop. If you or someone you know feels they are being called to life of service to God’s people the Vocation Office of the Archdiocese of Chicago can help you begin the discernment process.