In our times, Jesus still calls men to share in His priesthood for the salvation of souls. This call, or vocation, to the priesthood is discerned by the Church. As Jesus summoned the apostles for a special time of instruction and formation before they were send out, the Church now has seminaries where men preparing for the priesthood study and receive priestly formation.

The successors to the apostles are the bishops. Bishops have the fullness of the priesthood, and it is only the bishop who can ordain men to the priesthood or diaconate. The parish priest represents the bishop in his parish community.

Because of the needs of the Christian community, the apostles summoned certain men to be deacons (cf. Acts 6). Deacons continue to fulfill an integral role in the life of the Church through their assistance at the liturgy and in the charitable works of the Church.

If you feel you might be called to the Priesthood, please visit the web site: www.pghpriest.com.