The Sacrament of Holy Orders is for those who choose to become a priest, bishop or deacon. Through ordination they are able to perform sacred duties and serve the Church community. Not everyone partakes in this Sacrament. It is one that certain men feel called to by God. Any young man who feels that he is being called to this state of life would do well to spend a lot of time in prayer while he is considering his vocation, and to seek out the advice of a trusted priest or deacon. Whether he is considering entrance to a diocesan seminary, a religious community or a program for permanent deacons there are vocation directors who can provide valuable insight to the life of a priest or deacon. Widowed men can become priests and married men can be ordained deacons. If the wife of a married deacon dies, he is not free to remarry and continue to function as a deacon. 

If in fact, he determines that he truly has a vocation to serve God and His people as a priest, he will have to undertake a rigorous course of study that will last approximately six years or possibly longer. At the successful completion of his studies and recommendations from his advisors, he will be ordained by a bishop. Any young man who feels that he is being called to ordination is encouraged to contact the pastor for guidance.