The Sacrament of 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"—the orders of bishop, priest, and deacon (Catechism, 1536).

While the Sacrament of Holy Orders is reserved for men in the priesthood, many are also called to the vocation of consecrated life in the Church. Below are web resources to help individuals and families consider, discern and pray for vocations.

Diocese of Fort Worth Office of Vocations

• The Office of Vocations helps raise awareness and encourages a positive response to the call to religious life and the diocesan priesthood. The department is also concerned with the formation of candidates accepted for studies leading to ordination of the priesthood for service in this diocese.

foryourvocation.org

• This Web site is a "Priority Initiative" of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. It was created for discerning men and women, parents and families, educators and youth leaders, and Vocation Directors to help all members of the Church foster vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.

vocation.com

• Offers a wealth of resources to young people considering vocations and all Catholics interested in promoting and fostering vocations.