In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a man is ordained to the ministry of priesthood. Holy Orders 'marks' the soul and changes it (like Baptism and Confirmation). The Church describes this mark as "an indelible character." Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders all bestow a distinct character on the person receiving it, a character that lasts forever-in this life and in the life to come. The character of Holy Orders is what allows a priest to act "in persona Christi", a Latin phrase that means "in the person of Christ." This is how the priest celebrates any Sacrament, not by his own power, but by the power of the Holy Spirit moving through him.
“…and, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1Peter 2:5)
The Priesthood
Our parish is blessed to have three priests who regularly minister to us and celebrate the sacraments with us. Along with Fr. Tim Dowling, our pastor, Fr. Emerson Francisco, our parochial vicar, and Fr. Ed Reading assist in the weekend liturgy celebrations.
The Church needs priests to give the Sacraments to the next generation. Listen for the call! For more information regarding the priesthood or religious life, please feel free to speak with one of our priests, call our parish office (973-786-6631, ext. 1), or reach out to the Vocations Office of the Diocese of Paterson.
The Permanent Diaconate
The Permanent Diaconate exists for men who wish to promise a life of service to God and His people. Following an initial year of discernment and four years of formation, Deacons are empowered to:
- Assist the priest at the Mass
- Preach on the Word of God
- Baptize infants
- Witness marriages
- Provide charity to those in need
For more information regarding the Permanent Diaconate, speak to Father Martin or one of our parish deacons (Ed Galinski, Keith Harris, and Tom Sullivan) or reach out to the Permanent Diaconate Office of the Diocese of Paterson.