Holy Orders and Religious Life: A Call to Serve the Body of Christ
The Sacrament of Holy Orders and the vocation to Religious Life are profound responses to God's call to serve the Church and preach the Gospel. Those who are ordained—bishops, priests, and deacons—are entrusted with the mission of preaching, celebrating the sacraments, and shepherding God’s people. Through their ministry, they build up the Body of Christ.
““Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.””
Similarly, men and women in religious life dedicate themselves to Christ through vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Whether in teaching, healthcare, prayer, or pastoral ministry, they witness to the love of God through a life of service and community.
These vocations are not about status or privilege—they are about self-giving love and a deep commitment to proclaiming the Gospel in word and action. They remind us all that every Christian is called, in their own way, to serve and to build up the Church.
To learn more about the vocation to Priesthood and Religious Life, visit the Vocation Office of the Archdiocese of Melbourne