Ordination of a Priest - New Horizons Church UK - UNREGISTERED VERSION

The Ordination of Priests,
also called Presbyters

Notes

Proper Prefaces

¶ The Gathering and Presentation

At the entry of the ministers a hymn may be sung.

The Greeting

The bishop greets the people

Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
AllBlessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

From Easter Day to Pentecost this acclamation follows

Alleluia. Christ is risen.
AllHe is risen indeed. Alleluia.

There is one body and one spirit.
AllThere is one hope to which we were called;
one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
Allone God and Father of all.

Peace be with you
Alland also with you.

The bishop introduces the service

God calls his people to follow Christ, and forms us into a royal priesthood, a holy nation, to declare the wonderful deeds of him who has called us out of darkness into his marvellous light.

The Church is the Body of Christ, the people of God and the dwelling-place of the Holy Spirit. In baptism the whole Church is summoned to witness to God’s love and to work for the coming of his kingdom.

To serve this royal priesthood, God has given particular ministries. Priests are ordained to lead God’s people in the offering of praise and the proclamation of the gospel. They share with the Bishop in the oversight of the Church, delighting in its beauty and rejoicing in its well-being. They are to set the example of the Good Shepherd always before them as the pattern of their calling. With the Bishop and their fellow presbyters, they are to sustain the community of the faithful by the ministry of word and sacrament, that we all may grow into the fullness of Christ and be a living sacrifice acceptable to God.

Prayers of Penitence

One of the two forms of confession on page 169 of Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England and an authorized absolution are normally used (see Note 6).

The Presentation

Each ordinand is presented

Reverend Father in God, I present N to be ordained to the office of priest in the Church of God; he/she is to serve in the parish of N.

When the ordinands have been presented, the bishop asks these questions, to which the appropriate persons respond (see Note 7)

Have those whose duty it is to know these ordinands and examine them found them to be of godly life and sound learning?

They have.

Do they believe them to be duly called to serve God in this ministry?

They do.

The bishop turns to the ordinands and says

Do you believe that God is calling you to this ministry?

OrdinandsI do so believe.

BishopI invite the archdeacon/registrar to confirm that the ordinands have taken the necessary oaths and made the Declaration of Assent.

They have duly taken the oath of allegiance to the Sovereign and the oath of canonical obedience to the Bishop. They have affirmed and declared their belief in ‘the faith which is revealed in the Holy Scriptures and set forth in the catholic creeds and to which the historic formularies of the Church of England bear witness’.

The Collect

The bishop introduces a period of silent prayer with the following bidding or other suitable words

Let us pray for N and N, and for the ministry of the whole people of God.

The bishop says either the Collect of the Day or this Collect

God our Father, Lord of all the world,
through your Son you have called us into the fellowship
of your universal Church:
hear our prayer for your faithful people
that in their vocation and ministry
each may be an instrument of your love,
and give to your servants now to be ordained
the needful gifts of grace;
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.AllAmen.

 

¶ The Liturgy of the Word

Either one or two readings from Scripture precede the Gospel reading.

At the end of each the reader may say

This is the word of the Lord.
AllThanks be to God.

The psalm or canticle follows the first reading; other hymns and songs may be used between the readings.

Gospel Reading

An acclamation may herald the Gospel reading

Alleluia, alleluia.
I chose you and appointed you, says the Lord,
that you should go and bear fruit that shall last.
AllAlleluia.

cf John 15.16

When the Gospel is announced the deacon says

Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to N.
AllGlory to you, O Lord.

At the end

This is the Gospel of the Lord.
AllPraise to you, O Christ.

Sermon

The Creed

On Sundays and Principal Holy Days the Nicene Creed is said, and on other days it may be said.

All We believe in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is,
seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made,
of one Being with the Father;
through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven,
was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary
and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son,
who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified,
who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come.
Amen.

 

¶ The Liturgy of Ordination

The Declarations

The ordinands stand before the bishop, who addresses the congregation

BishopPriests are called to be servants and shepherds among the people to whom they are sent. With their Bishop and fellow ministers, they are to proclaim the word of the Lord and to watch for the signs of God’s new creation. They are to be messengers, watchmen and stewards of the Lord; they are to teach and to admonish, to feed and provide for his family, to search for his children in the wilderness of this world’s temptations, and to guide them through its confusions, that they may be saved through Christ for ever. Formed by the word, they are to call their hearers to repentance and to declare in Christ's name the absolution and forgiveness of their sins.

With all God’s people, they are to tell the story of God’s love. They are to baptize new disciples in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and to walk with them in the way of Christ, nurturing them in the faith. They are to unfold the Scriptures, to preach the word in season and out of season, and to declare the mighty acts of God. They are to preside at the Lord's table and lead his people in worship, offering with them a spiritual sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. They are to bless the people in God’s name. They are to resist evil, support the weak, defend the poor, and intercede for all in need. They are to minister to the sick and prepare the dying for their death. Guided by the Spirit, they are to discern and foster the gifts of all God’s people, that the whole Church may be built up in unity and faith.

The bishop addresses the ordinands directly

We trust that long ago you began to weigh and ponder all this, and that you are fully determined, by the grace of God, to devote yourself wholly to his service, so that as you daily follow the rule and teaching of our Lord and grow into his likeness, God may sanctify the lives of all with whom you have to do.

And now, in order that we may know your mind and purpose, you must make the declarations we put to you.

Do you accept the Holy Scriptures as revealing all things necessary for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ?

OrdinandsI do so accept them.

Will you be diligent in prayer, in reading Holy Scripture, and in all studies that will deepen your faith and fit you to bear witness to the truth of the gospel?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you lead Christ’s people in proclaiming his glorious gospel, so that the good news of salvation may be heard in every place?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you faithfully minister the doctrine and sacraments of Christ as the Church of England has received them, so that the people committed to your charge may be defended against error and flourish in the faith?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you, knowing yourself to be reconciled to God in Christ, strive to be an instrument of God’s peace in the Church and in the world?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you endeavour to fashion your own life and that of your household according to the way of Christ, that you may be a pattern and example to Christ’s people?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you work with your fellow servants in the gospel for the sake of the kingdom of God?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you accept and minister the discipline of this Church, and respect authority duly exercised within it?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

Will you then, in the strength of the Holy Spirit, continually stir up the gift of God that is in you, to make Christ known among all whom you serve?

OrdinandsBy the help of God, I will.

The congregation stands and the ordinands turn and face them.

Brothers and sisters, you have heard how great is the charge that these ordinands are ready to undertake, and you have heard their declarations. Is it now your will that they should be ordained?

AllIt is.

Will you continually pray for them?

AllWe will.

Will you uphold and encourage them in their ministry?

AllWe will.

The ordinands turn back to face the bishop, who continues, addressing them

In the name of our Lord we bid you remember the greatness of the trust that is now to be committed to your charge. Remember always with thanksgiving that the treasure now to be entrusted to you is Christ’s own flock, bought by the shedding of his blood on the cross. It is to him that you will render account for your stewardship of his people.

You cannot bear the weight of this calling in your own strength, but only by the grace and power of God. Pray therefore that your heart may daily be enlarged and your understanding of the Scriptures enlightened.

Pray earnestly for the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The ordinands kneel and silence is kept.

Veni Creator

Veni Creator is sung

AllCome, Holy Ghost, our souls inspire,
and lighten with celestial fire;
thou the anointing Spirit art,
who dost thy sevenfold gifts impart.

Thy blessed unction from above
is comfort, life and fire of love;
enable with perpetual light
the dullness of our blinded sight.

Anoint and cheer our soiled face
with the abundance of thy grace;
keep far our foes, give peace at home;
where thou art guide no ill can come.

Teach us to know the Father, Son,
and thee, of both, to be but one;
that through the ages all along
this may be our endless song:

Praise to thy eternal merit,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

The Litany

In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ,
let us pray to the Father.
AllLord, have mercy.

For the peace of the whole world,
for the welfare of the Holy Church of God,
and for the unity of all,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For all the members of the Church in their vocation and ministry,
that they may serve him in truth and love,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For N our bishop,
and for all bishops, presbyters and deacons,
that they may hunger for truth and thirst after righteousness,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For N and N,
called to be priests in his Church,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For the mission of the Church,
that in faithful witness we may proclaim the gospel of reconciliation
to the ends of the earth,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For the unity of the Church,
that we may be one in Christ, according to his will,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For those who are lost and for those who have strayed,
that they may return to the way of Christ,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For the sick and suffering,
for the aged and infirm,
for the lonely and neglected,
and for all who remember and care for them,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For the poor and the hungry,
for the homeless and the oppressed,
for all prisoners and captives,
and for our brothers and sisters who are persecuted for their faith,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For Elizabeth our Queen,
for the leaders of the nations,
and for all in authority,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

For ourselves;
for grace to repent and amend our lives,
that we may be pardoned and absolved from all our sins,
let us pray to the Lord.
AllLord, have mercy.

Remembering [… and]
all who have gone before us in faith,
and in communion with [… and] all the saints,
we commit ourselves, one another,
and our whole life to Christ our God;
Allto you, O Lord.

The Ordination Prayer

The ordinands continue to kneel before the bishop, who stands to pray.

BishopWe praise and glorify you, almighty Father,
because in your infinite love you have formed throughout the world
a holy people for your own possession,
a royal priesthood,
a universal Church.

We praise and glorify you
because you have given us your only Son Jesus Christ,
the image of your eternal and invisible glory,
the firstborn of all creation and head of the Church.

We praise and glorify you that by his death he has overcome death;
and that, having ascended into heaven, he has given his gifts abundantly,
to equip your holy people for the work of ministry,
for the building up of the body of Christ.

And now we give you thanks
that you have called these your servants,
whom we ordain in your name,
to share as priests in the ministry of the gospel of Christ,
the Apostle and High Priest of our faith,
and the Shepherd of our souls.

Therefore, Father, through Christ our Lord we pray:

Here the bishop and priests lay their hands on the head of each ordinand, and the bishop says

Send down the Holy Spirit on your servant N
for the office and work of a priest in your Church.

When the bishop has laid hands on all of the ordinands, the prayer continues

Through your Spirit, heavenly Father,
give these your servants grace and power
to proclaim the gospel of your salvation
and minister the sacraments of the new covenant.
Renew them in holiness,
and give them wisdom and discipline
to work faithfully with those committed to their charge.

In union with their fellow servants in Christ,
may they reconcile what is divided,
heal what is wounded
and restore what is lost.

May they declare your blessings to your people;
may they proclaim Christ’s victory over the powers of darkness,
and absolve in Christ’s name those who turn to him in faith;
so shall a people made whole in Christ
offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to you,
our God and Father,
to whom, with the Son and the Holy Spirit,
belong glory and honour, worship and praise, now and for ever.
AllAmen.

The Giving of the Bible

The Giving of the Bible takes place here or at the Sending Out (see Note 13).

The newly ordained priests stand and the bishop gives the Bible to each of them.

BishopReceive this book,
as a sign of the authority which God has given you this day
to preach the gospel of Christ
and to minister his holy sacraments.

The Welcome

The dean, an archdeacon or another senior priest says to the newly ordained priests

God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself,
and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.
AllWe welcome you as ambassadors for Christ:
let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

 

¶ The Liturgy of the Eucharist

The Peace

The bishop introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words

God has made us one in Christ.
He has set his seal upon us,
and as a pledge of what is to come
has given us the Spirit to dwell in our hearts.

The peace of the Lord be always with you
Alland also with you.

DeaconLet us offer one another a sign of peace.

All may exchange a sign of peace.

Preparation of the Table

Taking of the Bread and Wine

A hymn may be sung.

The gifts of the people may be gathered and presented.

The deacon prepares the table and places bread and wine upon it.

One or more of the prayers at the preparation of the table may be said.

The bishop takes the bread and wine.

The Eucharistic Prayer

An authorized Eucharistic Prayer is used.

For Proper Prefaces, see here.

The Lord’s Prayer

Breaking of the Bread

Giving of Communion

Prayer after Communion

Silence is kept.

Either the Post Communion of the day or this prayer is said

Lord God, heavenly Father,
grant to your Church today
the faith of her apostles,
the hope of her martyrs
and the love of her Lord,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
AllAmen.

All may say this prayer

AllWe thank you, gracious Father,
for welcoming your children to feast in your kingdom;
by your love unite us
and with your Spirit send us,
in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

¶ The Sending Out

BishopGod who has called you is faithful.

May the Father, whose glory fills the heavens,
cleanse you by his holiness
and send you to proclaim his word.
AllAmen.

May Christ, who has ascended to the heights,
pour upon you the riches of his grace.
AllAmen.

May the Holy Spirit, the comforter,
equip you and strengthen you in your ministry.
AllAmen.

And the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be upon you and remain with you always.
AllAmen.

Deacon Go in the peace of Christ. (Alleluia, alleluia.)
AllThanks be to God. (Alleluia, alleluia.)

 

Notes

1The Threefold Ministry

The Church of England maintains the historic threefold ministry of bishops, priests and deacons. Its ministers are ordained by bishops according to authorized forms of service, with prayer and the laying on of hands (see Canons C 1 – C 4).

2Forms of Service

Questions concerning the form of service to be used and other matters concerning the conduct of the service, are to be determined by the Bishop of the Diocese in consultation with the bishop who presides at it, in accordance with the rubrics of the service and having regard to tradition and local custom.

3Holy Communion

The Notes to the Order for the Celebration of Holy Communion apply equally to this service. Texts and rubrics from the Order for the Celebration of Holy Communion may be replaced by the relevant texts from any authorized form of service of Holy Communion.

4The Deacon

The deacon of the rite may

·         carry the Book of the Gospels into the assembly,

·         read the Gospel,

·         sing or say the Ordination Litany,

·         prepare the table and the gifts,

·         assist with the Breaking of the Bread and the distribution,

·         supervise the ablutions,

·         dismiss the assembly.

5Before the Entry of the Ministers

If the ordinands are to begin the service seated among the congregation with those who are to present them, they take their places before the entry of the ministers.

6Prayers of Penitence

If a confession follows the introduction to the service, the bishop uses the following invitation to confession or other suitable words:

As we stand together before God,
and trusting in his grace alone,
let us join with these ordinands in confessing our sins.

7The Presentation

The ordinands are normally presented after the Greeting and the bishop’s introduction to the service, but the Presentation may be deferred until immediately before the Liturgy of Ordination.

It is appropriate for the training incumbent or someone who has been involved with each ordinand’s formation and training to answer the questions about their call and preparation.

8Oaths and Declaration of Assent

The Declaration of Assent, with its Preface, should be printed at the front of the service booklet.

The oaths are taken in the presence of the bishop or the bishop’s commissary before the service.

If under Canon C 13 the oath of allegiance is not taken by one or more of those to be ordained, the question is answered thus:

‘Those who are required to do so have duly made the oath of allegiance to the Sovereign. They have all made the oath of canonical obedience to the Bishop. They have affirmed…’

If one or more candidates makes a solemn affirmation as provided for by Canon C 13, the words ‘or a solemn affirmation’ are inserted into the answer as appropriate.

9Gloria in Excelsis

Gloria in Excelsis may be sung before the Collect.

10Readings

At least one of the readings should be read by a layperson.

The following readings are particularly appropriate at the ordination of priests:

Old Testament: Isaiah 52.7-10; Isaiah 61.1-3; Jeremiah 31.31-34

Psalm: 99; 103.17-end; 118.19-26; 119.33-40; 145.1-7,22

New Testament: 2 Corinthians 5.17-6.2; Ephesians 4.7-16; 1 Timothy 4.6-16; Titus 1.5-9

Gospel: Matthew 9.35-10.1[, 5-16]; Matthew 28.16-20; John 10.1-16; John 20.19-23

Alternatively, the readings of the day may be used, especially on a Principal Feast or a Festival.

The bishop who presides at the service may choose other readings suitable to the occasion.

11Prayers

Veni Creator is sung.

Another suitable litany may be substituted for the litany printed in the text.

12The Ordination Prayer

The Ordination Prayer is a single prayer; it is important that any movement during the prayer does not detract from the unity of the prayer as a whole.

In the Ordination Prayer, ‘Lord, send your Spirit’ or any other suitable invocation of the Holy Spirit may be used as a response at the end of each paragraph. The response may be introduced by an appropriate phrase.

Priests share with the bishop in laying hands on the heads of those ordained to the presbyterate. They do so at the invitation of the bishop, who determines where they stand, and by what gesture they indicate they are joining in prayer with him.

13The Giving of the Bible

When the Giving of the Bible takes place immediately after the Ordination Prayer, a single large Bible may be used, or each of the newly ordained may be presented with an individual Bible. If a single Bible is used, individual copies should also be given, without words, at the Sending Out.

Alternatively, the Giving of the Bible may take place at the Sending Out. In this case, individual copies of the Bible are given.

It is important that the Giving of the Bible is clearly distinguished from any subordinate ceremonies.

14Anointing

The bishop may anoint the palms of the hands of each newly ordained priest, saying

May God,
who anointed the Christ with the Holy Spirit at his baptism,
anoint and empower you to reconcile and bless his people.

If this is done, it takes place immediately before the Welcome.

15Vesture

The ordinands may enter in the vesture of the order to which they are to be ordained. Where it is agreed that the newly ordained are to be clothed in their customary vesture during the service, this should take place after the Welcome.

16The Ministry of the Newly Ordained

After the Peace, the newly ordained presbyters may be presented with the bread and the wine that are to be used in the Liturgy of the Eucharist which immediately follows. They may then stand at the Holy Table with the bishop, as he may direct.

17Prayer after Communion

In place of the prayer ‘We thank you, gracious Father’, the congregation may say one of the prayers on page 182 of Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England.

18The Sending Out

The blessing may be preceded by the following:

BishopOur help is in the name of the Lord,
Allwho has made heaven and earth.

BishopBlessed be the name of the Lord,
Allnow and for ever. Amen.

The bishop may lead the newly ordained presbyters through the church. He may present them to representatives of the parishes in which they are to serve.

Proper Prefaces

In prayers A, B and C the Proper Preface of the day may be used. Alternatively, the following short Proper Prefaces may be used

1
And now we give you thanks
because within the royal priesthood of your Church
you ordain ministers to proclaim the word of God,
to care for your people
and to celebrate the sacraments of the new covenant.

2
And now we give you thanks
that your Son opened the Scriptures for his companions
and made himself known in the breaking of bread;
he prays for your servants with compassion
and blesses with the wounded hands of love.

In prayers A, B and E the following extended Proper Preface may be used

It is indeed right and good,
our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks and praise
through your Son Jesus Christ, our great high priest.
He was lifted up for us on the cross
that he might reveal your glory and draw all people to himself.
You exalted him to your right hand on high
and through your Holy Spirit you sent upon your people
a rich diversity of gifts.
From this royal priestly people you raise up ministers
to proclaim your word,
to care for your people
and to be the stewards of your holy mysteries.
You call them to serve the world your Son redeemed
and build up his body the Church to be his bride.
Therefore with angels and archangels,
and with all the company of heaven,
we proclaim your great and glorious name,
for ever praising you and saying:

 

THE BLESSING OF A READER

The candidate, dressed in cassock and rason will stand before the Icon of Christ when the procession reaches its destination. Before the Divine Liturgy the candidate is brought before the Bishop by his sponsor. He makes three metanies before the Holy Doors, and then kisses the Bishop's right hand. The Bishop blesses him and cuts his hair in the form of a cross, symbolizing the new cleric's entry into the service of the Church, and he says:

Bishop: In the name of the Father.

All: Amen.

Bishop: And of the Son.

All: Amen.

Bishop: And of the Holy Spirit.

All: Amen.

The Bishop blesses him on the head three times and places his hand on the candidate's head and prays:

Bishop: Lord, God almighty, choose this your servant and sanctify him. Grant that he read and meditate on your divine Word with wisdom and understanding, and that he keep his life blameless through the grace, the and the love of men of your only-begotten Son with whom you are blessed, together with your all-holy, all good, and life-giving Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.

The Bishop then gives the reader the Epistle Book to read a few lines.

 

THE BLESSING OF A SUBDEACON

The candidate is brought to the Bishop who is seated at the Holy Doors. When the Reader's rason is removed, the Bishop will place the sticharion on the Reader's left shoulder. When he vests, the Bishop will tie the orarion around the Reader's waist. Then the Bishop blesses him on the head three times and places his hand on the candidate's head and prays:

Bishop: O Lord, our God, who by one and the same Spirit give good gifts to those whom you have chosen, you have appointed that there be different orders in your Church and different degrees in your ministry for those who serve your holy and spotless Mysteries. Further, in your ineffable wisdom you have destined that this your servant be worthy to serve in your holy Church. Therefore, O Lord, grant that he may always act blamelessly. Make him love the beauty of your house, as he stands at the door of your holy Temple, and lights the lamps in the tabernacle of your glory. Establish him in your holy Church like a green olive tree so that he may bring forth the fruits of holiness. Make him one of your faithful servants that, at the time of your coming, he may receive the reward of those who have done your will. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always, and forever and ever.

All: Amen.

The Bishop places a towel on the Subdeacon's left shoulder and gives the new Subdeacon a pitcher of water and a basin. The Subdeacon kisses the Bishop's right hand and washes the Bishop's hands saying three times: "osi pisti" (all you faithful). Then he stands before the icon of the Mother of God as the Liturgy begins.

At the conclusion of the Cherubikon the Subdeacon approaches the Royal Doors and washes the Bishop's hands after the Bishop has performed the incensation.

After Communion, the Subdeacon approaches the altar with cruet, chalice, and towel, and washes the Bishop's fingers. The Bishop then consumes the water in the chalice. The Subdeacon takes part in both Entrances, carrying the pitcher and basin.

THE ORDINATION OF A DEACON

The ordination of a deacon takes place during the Divine Liturgy, after the sanctification of the Holy Gifts. The subdeacon is then led by the deacons through the church to the sanctuary pausing three times:

For our brother, the servant of God the devout subdeacon, N., chosen by God and the Holy Spirit, about to be ordained a deacon for the service of the holy altars of the Eparchy of Newton by the hand of our most reverend father and Bishop Nicholas, Auxiliary Bishop of Newton: let us ask for him the mercies of God.

Lord, have mercy (three times).

Deacon: Kelevsate! (the deacon-designate bows deeply.)

Deacon: Kelevsate! (the deacon-designate bows deeply.)

Deacon: Kelevson dhespota agie! (the deacon-designate bows deeply).

 

Then the deacon-designate comes before the bishop, who blesses him. He kisses the hand of the bishop.

The priests of highest rank lead the deacon-designate by the shoulders and process three times around the holy table. During this procession the deacon-designate kisses the four corners of the holy table and each time, passing in front of the bishop, he bows to him and kisses his hand, his hand cross and his epigonation. During this, the following troparia are is sung:

O holy martyrs, who fought the good fight and have received your crowns, beseech the Lord to save our souls.

Glory to you, O Christ God, the apostles' pride, the martyrs' joy who have proclaimed the consubstantial Trinity!

Dance, O Isaiah! A virgin has conceived in her womb and has given birth to a Son, Emmanuel, both God and man. His name is Orient: magnifying him we bless the virgin.

The candidate kneels before the altar with his head touching the altar. The Bishop places the end of his omophorion on the candidate's head and recites the prayer of ordination.

Deacon: Let us be attentive!

Bishop: Divine grace, which always heals infirmities and supplies for defects, elevates the devout subdeacon N. to be a deacon. Let us pray for him that the grace of the Holy Spirit may come upon him.

Clergy: Lord, have mercy (three times).

All: Lord, have mercy (three times).

Bishop: O Lord, our God, in your wisdom and by your inscrutable power you pour forth the fullness of your Holy Spirit upon those whom you set apart for your service to assist at your spotless Mysteries. O Lord, preserve in every virtue him whom you nave been pleased to raise through me to the office of deacon, that he may preserve the mystery of faith in a pure conscience. Give him the grace which you granted the protomartyr Stephen, the first to be called by you to the work of this ministry. Grant that he fulfill this office given to him in your goodness according to your good pleasure, and make your servant perfect, for those who use this office well will obtain for themselves a good reward. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever.

All: Amen.

Deacon: In peace let us pray to the Lord.

Clergy in sanctuary: Lord, have mercy (after each petition)

Deacon: For the peace from on high and for the salvation of our souls, let us pray to the Lord.

For the peace of the whole world, the stability of the holy Churches of God, and the union of all , let us pray to the Lord.

For our (Arch)bishop N., for his priesthood, for his perseverance, peace, health, and salvation, and for the works of his hands. let us pray to the Lord.

For the servant of God N.. now raised to be a deacon and for his salvation, let us pray to the Lord.

That the Lord may grant him a pure and blameless ministry, let us pray to the Lord.

For this city, every city and country, and for all the faithful who dwell in them, let us pray to the Lord.

For our deliverance from all afflictions, wrath, danger, and necessity, let us pray to the Lord.

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by your grace.

Remembering the all-holy, the spotless, the most highly blessed, our glorious lady, the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves and one another and our whole life to Christ God.

Clergy: To you, O Lord.

Bishop: O God, our Savior, as it is written in the Holy Gospel "if any of you desires to be the first, let him be your servant," you appointed by your everlasting word the Order of Deacons to your apostles and called your protomartyr Stephen to be the first to fulfill the office of deacon. O Lord, grant to this your servant whom you have been pleased to appoint to this ministry, the aid of your holy and life-giving Spirit. Fill him with faith and charity, with virtue and holiness; for it is not by the imposition of my hands but by the abundance of your mercy that grace is given to those who are worthy of you. Grant, therefore, that freed from all sin, he may stand blamelessly before you and obtain the promised reward. For you are our God and to you we render glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and always and for ever and ever.

Clergy: Amen.

The Bishop now places the orarion on the deacon's left shoulder, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The Bishop places the cuffs over the deacon's wrists, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The Bishop gives the altar fan to the deacon, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The Divine Liturgy then continues as usual.

 

THE ORDINATION OF A PRIEST

The ordination of a priest takes place after the Great Entrance of the Divine Liturgy.

The priest-designate is then led by the deacons through the church to the sanctuary pausing three times:

For our brother, the servant of God the devout Deacon Shaun, chosen by God and the Holy Spirit, about to be ordained a priest for the service of the holy altars of the Eparchy of Newton by the hand of our most reverend father and Bishop John, Eparch of Newton: let us ask for him the mercies of God.

Lord, have mercy (three times).

Priest: Kelevson! (the priest-designate bows deeply).

Priest: Kelevsate! (the priest-designate bows deeply).

Priest: Kelevson dhespota agie! (the priest-designate bows deeply).

Then the priest-designate comes before the bishop, who blesses him. He kisses the hand of the bishop.

The priests lead the priest-designate by the shoulders and process three times around the holy table. During this procession the priest-designate kisses the four corners of the holy table and each time, passing in front of the bishop, he bows to him and kisses his hand, his hand cross and his epigonation. During this, the following troparia are sung:

O holy martyrs, who fought the good fight and have received your crowns, beseech the Lord to save our souls.

Glory to you, O Christ God, the apostles' pride, the martyrs' joy who have proclaimed the consubstantial Trinity!

Dance, O Isaiah! A virgin has conceived in her womb and has given birth to a Son, Emmanuel, both God and man. His name is Orient: magnifying him we bless the virgin.

The candidate kneels before the altar with his head touching the altar. The bishop places the end of his omophorion on the candidate's head and prays the Prayer of Ordination.

Deacon: Let us be attentive!

Bishop: Divine grace, which always heals infirmities and supplies for defects, elevates the devout deacon Shaun to be a priest. Let us pray for him that the grace of the Holy Spirit may come upon him.

Clergy: Lord, have mercy (three times).

All: Lord, have mercy (three times).

Bishop: O God, who are without beginning and without end, and who exist before all creation, you honor with the name of priest those who are judged worthy to serve the word of your truth. O Lord of all grant that he, whom you have been pleased to promote through me, may be preserved in blameless speech, and unswerving faith and that he may receive in abundance the grace or your Spirit. Make him perfect in obeying you in all things, according to your good pleasure, that he may prove himself worthy of the priestly office, to which in Your divine wisdom you have appointed him. For yours is the might and yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever.

All: Amen.

Senior Priest: In peace, let us pray to the Lord.

Clergy in sanctuary: Lord, have mercy (after each petition).

Senior Priest: For the peace from on high and for the salvation of our souls, let us pray to the Lord.

For the peace of the whole world, the stability of the holy Churches of God, and the union of all , let us pray to the Lord.

For our Bishop John, for his priesthood, for his perseverance, peace, health, and salvation, and for the works of his hands. let us pray to the Lord.

For the servant of God Shaun now raised to be a priest and for his salvation, let us pray to the Lord.

That the Lord may grant him a pure and blameless priesthood, let us pray to the Lord.

For this city, every city and country, and for all the faithful who dwell in them, let us pray to the Lord.

For our deliverance from all afflictions, wrath, danger, and necessity, let us pray to the Lord.

Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and protect us, O God, by your grace.

Remembering the all-holy, the spotless, the most highly blessed, our glorious lady, the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary, with all the saints, let us commend ourselves and one another and our whole life to Christ God.

Clergy in sanctuary: To you, O Lord.

Bishop: O Lord God, great in power, unsearchable in wisdom and wonderful in your condescension towards the sons of men, you have been pleased to grant to this your servant the order of the priesthood. Fill him now with the gifts of the Holy Spirit that he may be worthy to stand blamelessly before your holy altar, to preach the Gospel of your kingdom, to serve the word of your truth, to present you with spiritual gifts and sacrifices, and to renew your people by the laver of regeneration; so that, in your great goodness, he may receive the reward of a faithful servant in his master's house at the second coming of your only begotten Son, our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. For worshiped and glorified is your blessed and magnificent name, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever.

Clergy: Amen.

The bishop now places the epitrachelion around the priest's neck, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The bishop places the zone around the priest's waist, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The bishop places the phelonion over the priest's shoulders, saying:

Bishop: Axios!

Clergy: Axios!

All: Axios!

The Divine Liturgy then continues as usual. After the Epiclesis the bishop places a particle of the Holy Bread in the new priest's hands saying:

Bishop: Take this in trust and guard it until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ when it will be reclaimed by him.

 

THE BLESSING OF AN ARCHIMANDRITE

Immediately after the Little Entrance, the priest chosen to be archimandrite comes before the bishop who traces the sign of the Cross over him and says:

Bishop: O Lord Jesus Christ our God, King before all ages, the Good Shepherd and leader of this spiritual flock, who gave your life for your sheep, you said "wherever two or three are gathered in my name, I will be among them." Be present now, O Lord, in our gathering by the grace of the Holy Spirit and make your servant, who now becomes an archimandrite, a good and useful member of this Church. Make smooth the way before him and enlighten his mind. Plant your fear in his heart that he may follow your holy will without blame, serve the needs of this community with fidelity and sincerity and spend all his efforts for its good. Keep his soul and body from all evil and make him an heir of your kingdom. For you are our Savior and to you we render glory with your eternal Father and your all-holy, good and life-giving Spirit, now and always and forever and ever.

Placing his hand on the head of the new archimandrite, the Bishop exclaims: "Axios!" which the people repeat thrice. He gives him the cross and veil saying "Axios" for each.

All: Amen.

 

Oath of Canonical Obedience (Priest) by North American Old Catholic Church Published in 1916

Ordination Holy Orders Old Catholic Church Liberal Catholic Church

This oath, which comes at the end of Ordination Mass following the post-communio prayer, is based on the LCC oath of 1916.

THE NEW PRIEST KNEELS BEFORE THE BISHOP

Bishop. Does thou promise to ourself and our successors due reverence and obedience in matters canonical?

New Priest(s). I do.

Bishop. Peace to you.

New Priest(s). And with thy spirit.

THE BISHOP CHARGES THEM THUS:

Bishop. Dearly beloved son(s) [daughter(s)], as what you have to handle is not without its mischances, I warn you that you do most diligently attend to the course of the Holy Eucharist and especially to that which regards the consecration, the breaking and communion of the Host. Be you also careful that in everything which appertains to the administration of the sacraments of Christ's holy church, you do adhere to the form set forth by lawful authority and presume not to depart therefrom in any detail.

THE BISHOP BLESSES THE NEW PRIEST(S)

Bishop. The blessing of God almighty, + the Father, + the Son and + the Holy Spirit, come down upon you, that you may be blessed in the priestly order and in the offering of sacrifice to almighty God, to whom belong honour and glory throughout the ages of ages.

R/. Amen.

THE BISHOP SITS AGAIN ON THE FALDSTOOL FACING THE NEW PRIEST(S), WHO CONTINUE TO KNEEL.

Bishop. Dearly beloved son(s) [daughter(s)], consider attentitevely the order you have taken and be ever mindful of the sacred trust reposed in you. Since it hat pleased our Lord to call you thus closer to Himself, forget not the service of your brethren, which is the golden pathway to his most glorious presence. Freely ye have received, freely give.

THE COMMUNIO VERSE IS SUNG AND THE HOLY EUCHARIST IS CONTINUED TO ITS CLOSE.

 

Rituale Romanum

Rite for ordination of priests

 Holy Orders - Priesthood - Introduction | Index | The Seven Penitential Psalms and Litany of the Saints  

PART VIII. ORDINATION OF PRIESTS

{The rite of ordination of a priest is taken from the latest edition of the Roman Pontifical, Part I, issued on February 28, 1962. It has been requested that it be included here as a convenience, because of its special importance in the Church's liturgy and because it may be a long time before the Roman Pontifical is translated into English.}

The ordination of a priest must normally take place within the Mass, after the tract has been sung or recited up to the last verse exclusive; or on certain days before the alleluia verse.

The bishop is seated on the faldstool, which has been placed for him at the middle of the altar. He is wearing the mitre.

The candidates are vested in amice, alb, maniple, and stole worn in the manner of a deacon. Over the left arm they carry a folded chasuble, the vestment of priesthood; and in the right hand a lighted candle and the white linen hand, used later to bind their hands (in some places the band is attached to the cincture).

The Preparatory Ceremony

{The first part of the rite consists of the calling of the ordinands and the formal presentation of them to the bishop; the reading of the interdict; the archdeacon's petition and testimony; and the bishop's address to the ordinands.}

The archdeacon summons the ordinands with the formula: Let those who are to be ordained to the order of priesthood come forward.

As their names are read out one by one by the notary, each one replies: "Present" and steps forward; they arrange themselves in a semicircle before the bishop and kneel.

Then one of the assistants reads the interdict, a last warning that if anyone receives the sacrament under false pretences, he will incur the penalty of excommunication.

The most reverend father and ruler in Christ, His Excellency, N.N., by the grace of God and of the Apostolic See Bishop of N., commands and charges, under pain of excommunication, that no one here present for the purpose of taking orders shall come forward to be ordained under any pretext, if he be irregular, excommunicated by law or by judicial sentence, under interdict or suspension, illegitimate, infamous, or in any other way disqualified, or of another diocese, unless he has the permission of his bishop. He enjoins, moreover, that none of the ordained shall depart until the Mass is over and the bishop's blessing has been received.

Now the archdeacon presents the candidates to the bishop, saying:

Most Reverend Father, our holy Mother the Catholic Church asks you to ordain these deacons here present to the burden of the priesthood.

The bishop inquires:

Do you know if they are worthy? The archdeacon replies:

As far as human frailty allows one to know, I am certain and I testify that they are worthy to undertake the burden of this office.

The bishop says:

Thanks be to God.

The Bishop's Address

{In the first place the bishop addresses himself to the clergy and the people, consulting with them about the fitness of the men who are being presented for ordination. This is reminiscent of olden times when the custom prevailed of having priests and other clergy chosen by the will of the people. It must be kept in mind, then, that in the present discipline of the Church the people can merely raise objections, but it is the bishop who makes the choice.}

The bishop addresses the clergy and the people as follows:

My dear brethren, since the captain of a ship and its passengers alike have reason to feel safe or else in danger on a voyage, they ought to be of one mind in their common interests. Not without reason, then, have the fathers decreed that the people too should be consulted in the choice of those who are to be raised to the ministry of the altar.

For sometimes it happens that one or another person has knowledge about the life and conduct of a candidate that is not generally known. And the people will necessarily be more inclined to be loyal to a priest if they have given consent to his ordination.

As far as I can judge, the conduct of these deacons, who with God's help are to be ordained to the priesthood, is commendable and is pleasing to God. In my opinion, then, they are deserving of being promoted to a higher honor in the Church. Yet it is well to consult the people as a whole, rather than to rely on one or a few, whose approval might be a consequence of partiality or of misjudgment.

Be perfectly free, then, to say what you know about the conduct and character of the candidates and what you think of their fitness. But let your approval of their elevation to the priesthood be based more on their merits than on your own affection for them. Consequently, if anyone has anything against them, let him for God's honor and in God's name come forward and sincerely speak his mind. Only let him remember his own state.

After a brief pause the bishop continues, addressing himself now in exhortation to the candidates:

My dear sons, who are about to be consecrated to the office of the priesthood, endeavor to receive that office worthily, and once ordained, strive to discharge it in a praiseworthy manner. A priest's duties are to offer sacrifice, to bless, to govern, to preach, and to baptize. So high a dignity should be approached with great awe, and care must be taken that those chosen for it are recommended by eminent wisdom, upright character, and a long-standing virtuous life.

Thus it was that when the Lord commanded Moses to choose as his helpers seventy men from the whole tribe of Israel, to whom He would impart the gifts of the Holy Spirit, He said to him: "Choose the ones whom you know to be elders of the people" (Num 11.16). It is you yourselves who are prefigured in these seventy elders, if now, by the help of the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit, you are faithful to the Ten Commandments, and display soundness and maturity in knowledge and in action.

Under the same kind of sign and figure, our Lord, in the New Law, chose the seventy-two disciples, and sent them before Him two by two to preach. Thus He taught us both by word and by deed that the ministers of His Church should be perfect both in faith and in works; in other words, that their lives should be founded on the twofold love of God and of neighbor. Strive, then, to be such, that by God's grace you may be worthy of being chosen to assist Moses and the twelve apostles, that is, the Catholic bishops who are prefigured by Moses and the apostles. Then indeed is Holy Church surrounded, adorned, and ruled by a wonderful variety of ministers, when from her ranks are consecrated bishops, and others of lesser orders, priests, deacons, and subdeacons, each of a different dignity, yet comprising the many members of the one body of Christ.

Therefore, my dear sons, chosen as you are by the judgment of our brethren to be consecrated as our helpers, keep yourselves blameless in a life of chastity and sanctity. Be well aware of the sacredness of your duties. Be holy as you deal with holy things. When you celebrate the mystery of the Lord's death, see to it that by mortifying your bodies you rid yourselves of all vice and concupiscence. Let the doctrine you expound be spiritual medicine for the people of God. Let the fragrance of your lives be the delight of Christ's Church, that by your preaching and example you help to build up the edifice which is the family of God. May it never come about that we, for promoting you to so great an office, or you, for taking it on yourselves, should deserve the Lord's condemnation; but rather may we merit a reward from Him. So let it be by His grace.

All: Amen.

Litany of the Saints

If ordination to the priesthood was not preceded earlier by ordination to the subdiaconate or the diaconate, then the Litany of the Saints is chanted at this time. During the litany the candidates humbly lie prostrate on the floor of the sanctuary. The bishop kneels on the altar predella. For the litany see Litany of the Saints (and for the music see the music supplement).

After the invocation "That you grant eternal rest to all the faithful departed" the bishop stands and turns to the ordinands (who remain prostrate on the floor). Holding the crozier in his left hand and still wearing the mitre, the bishop chants or recites the following:

That you bless   these elect. R. We beg you to hear us.

That you bless   and sanctify   these elect. R. We beg you to hear us.

That you bless   and sanctify   and consecrate these elect. R. We beg you to hear us.

Then the bishop kneels again at the faldstool, and the chanters finish the litany up to "Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord have mercy," inclusive.

The Laying-on of Hands

{When the litany is ended the candidates rise and go in pairs to kneel before the bishop. The bishop places both his hands on the head of each candidate in turn, without saying anything. This very simple though impressive action, unaccompanied by prayer or chant, is called the essential matter of the sacrament. It signifies that the power of priesthood is conferred by the bishop imposing hands on the candidate, transmitting to the latter the power which the bishop himself has received from Christ through the apostles and their successors.}

After the bishop has imposed hands on them, they return to their former place and kneel. When all are in place the bishop holds his right hand outstretched over them. Next the priests who are present come forward and lay both their hands on the head of each candidate Then, forming a semicircle beginning at the gospel side, they stand behind the candidates and hold their right hand outstretched over them just as the bishop is doing.

The act of the priests taking part in the ceremony of laying-on of hands is perhaps a relic of the time when more than one bishop took part in the ordination of priests, and each bishop present imposed hands on the ordinands. The present ceremony of the priests, imposing hands has no other purpose than to make more forceful the outward sign of power being conferred through this kind of action.

The bishop (wearing the mitre) now says the following prayer:

My brethren, let us implore God the Father almighty to multiply His heavenly gifts in these servants of His whom He has chosen for the office of the priesthood. May they fulfill by His grace the office they receive by His goodness; through Christ our Lord.

All: Amen. 

Then the bishop removes the mitre, turns to the altar, and says:

Let us pray.

The ministers: Let us kneel down. R. Arise.

Then the bishop turns around to the ordinands and says:

Hear us, we pray, O Lord God, and pour out on these servants of yours the blessing of the Holy Spirit and the power of priestly grace. And now as we present them for consecration in your benign presence, may you sustain them forever by the bounty of your gifts. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God,

Here the bishop extends his hands and chants or recites the conclusion to the preceding prayer and the following versicles:

B: Forever and ever.

All: Amen.

B: The Lord be with you.

All: May He also be with you.

B: Lift up your hearts.

All: We have lifted them up to the Lord.

B: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

All: It is fitting and right to do so.

The Solemn Prayer and Form of the Sacrament

{This very beautiful prayer, also called the consecratory preface, is the actual form of the sacrament, and in early times the Roman rite for ordination had nothing more than a prayer or prayers of this kind, along with the imposition of hands. A theology of the sacrament could quite easily be constructed on this prayer. In brief, it asks for God's grace, for He is the source of all honors and dignities, as also of all growth and order. It states the principle that God's loving providence guides His rational creatures through stages of gradual progress and perfection. It points out how this principle operated in the Old Testament, in God's choosing Moses and the seventy elders to assist Him; and in the New, in Christ's choosing the apostles and their successors to carry out the ministry of His Church. Then follows a petition that the bishop may have helpers in the men being ordained, who will prove themselves to be elders in the best sense of the term. Lastly the Holy Spirit and His gifts are invoked on the candidates, that they be raised to the priesthood and be filled with the holiness which should characterize this office.}

The bishop continues with the consecratory preface:

It is indeed fitting and right, praiseworthy and salutary that we should always and everywhere give thanks to you, O holy Lord, almighty Father, everlasting God, the source of all honors and the dispenser of all dignities. Through you all things make progress and receive their permanence. In accord with your wise designs all rational creatures advance to a higher excellence. And in accord with this same principle the various grades of priests and the offices of levites, instituted for sacred functions, grew and developed. For after appointing chief priests to rule the people, you selected men of lesser degree and second rank to be their associates and their helpers. Thus in the desert you propagated Moses' spirit in the hearts of seventy judicious men, with whose help he was enabled to govern easily the countless multitude. Thus too you imbued Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron, with the abundant graces of their father, in order to assure a sufficient number of priests for the offering of saving sacrifices and the performance of the more common sacred rites. By the same providence, O Lord, you gave the apostles of your Son associate teachers of the faith, and by their help as preachers of a second rank the apostles made their voice heard to the ends of the earth. Therefore, we beg you, Lord, to support us in our weakness with similar helpers, for inasmuch as we are weaker, so much the more we stand in need of them.

The Essential Form

At this point the bishop interrupts the chant and recites the following words, which constitute the essential form of the sacrament:

Almighty Father, we pray that you bestow on these servants of yours the dignity of the priesthood. Renew in their hearts the spirit of holiness, so that they may be steadfast in this second degree of the priestly office received from you, O God, and by their own lives suggest a rule of life to others.

Here the bishop resumes the chant of the rest of the preface:

May they be prudent fellow-workers in our ministry. May they shine in all the virtues, so that they will be able to give a good account of the stewardship entrusted to them. and finally attain the reward of everlasting blessedness.

The bishop recites the conclusion in a low voice, but loud enough to be heard by those near him:

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.

All: Amen.

Investiture of the New Priests

Now the newly ordained priests go and kneel before the bishop one by one. The bishop is seated on the faldstool and is wearing the mitre. He takes the stole, until now worn by the newly ordained on the left shoulder, draws it over the right shoulder, and arranges it in the form of a cross over the chest (in the manner worn by a priest). As he does so he says to each one:

Take the yoke of the Lord, for His yoke is sweet and His burden light.

Next he invests each one with the chasuble, leaving it folded and pinned at the back but hanging down in front. As he does so he says:

Take the vestment of priesthood which signifies charity; for God is able to advance you in charity and in perfection.

To this the ordained adds: Thanks be to God.

The bishop rises, removes the mitre, and says the following prayer, during which all the others kneel:

O God, the source of all holiness, whose consecration is ever effective, whose blessing is ever fulfilled, pour out on these servants of yours, whom we now raise to the dignity of the priesthood, the gift of your blessing. By their noble and exemplary lives let them prove that they are really elders of the people, and true to the norms laid down by Paul to Timothy and Titus. Let them meditate on your law day and night, so that they may believe what they have read, and teach what they have believed, and practice what they have taught. May justice, constancy, mercy, courage, and all the other virtues be reflected in their every way of acting. May they inspire others by their example, and hearten them by their admonitions. May they keep pure and spotless the gift of their high calling. For the worship of your people may they change bread and wine into the body and blood of your Son by a holy consecration. May they through persevering charity mature "unto the perfect man, unto the measure of the age of the fulness of Christ," and rise on the day of the just and eternal judgment of God with a good conscience, true faith, and the full gifts of the Holy Spirit. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with

you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.

All: Amen.

The bishop kneels, facing the altar, and intones the hymn, "Veni Creator" which is then continued by the choir (for the music see the music supplement):

Veni Creator

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest,

And in our souls take up your rest;

Come with your grace and heavenly aid

To fill the hearts which you have made.

O Comforter, to you we cry,

You heavenly gift of God Most High,

You, fount of life and fire of love,

And sweet anointing from above.

You in your sevenfold gifts are known;

You, finger of God's hand we own;

You, promise of the Father, you

Who do the tongue with power imbue.

Kindle our senses from above,

And make our hearts o'erflow with love;

With patience firm and virtue high

The weakness of our flesh supply.

Far from us drive the foe we dread,

And grant us your peace instead;

So shall we not, with you for guide,

Turn from the path of life aside.

Oh, may your grace on us bestow

The Father and the Son to know;

And you, through endless times confessed,

Of both the eternal Spirit blest.

Now to the Father and the Son,

Who rose from death, be glory given,

With you, O holy Comforter,

Henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.

The Anointing of Hands

After the first verse of the hymn the bishop rises and sits on the faldstool (wearing the mitre). He removes his gloves but puts the episcopal ring back on his finger. The gremiale is placed over his knees. The ordained come forward and one by one kneel before the bishop. He then takes the oil of catechumens and anoints both of their hands which they hold together palms upward. First he anoints the inside of the hands, tracing a cross from the thumb of the right hand to the index finger of the left, and from the thumb of the left hand to the index finger of the right. Next he anoints the entire palms. He says as he performs the anointings:

May it please you, O Lord, to consecrate and sanctify these hands by this anointing and our   blessing.

All: Amen.

And having made the sign of the cross over the hands of the ordained he continues:

That whatever they bless may be blessed, and whatever they consecrate may be consecrated in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

To the above form each of the ordained adds:

Amen.

Then the bishop closes or joins together the hands of the ordained. The latter, keeping his hands joined, goes to the side of the altar where one of the assistants of the bishop binds the consecrated hands together with a white cloth, leaving the fingers free. Each of the ordained goes back to his place. The bishop cleanses his fingers with a piece of bread.

Presentation of the Host and Chalice

The bishop now presents each of the ordained with a chalice containing wine and water and a paten upon it with a host. The ordained touches with the fore and middle fingers both the paten and the cur of the chalice. During this ceremony the bishop says:

Receive the power to offer sacrifice to God, and to celebrate Masses for the living and the dead, in the name of the Lord.

All: Amen.

Having cleansed his hands the bishop goes to the throne or to the faldstool at the epistle side. Mass is resumed with the singing of the last verse of the tract or sequence or alleluia verse.

Concelebration of the Mass

After the offertory antiphon the bishop puts on the mitre and is seated before the middle of the altar. The ordained come to the altar, and two by two kneel before the bishop and present him with a lighted candle, kissing his hand as they do so. After this they return to their places.

From now on all the newly ordained priests pray the Mass along with the bishop, saying all prayers aloud, even those usually said in a low voice. They receive the kiss of peace from the bishop at the usual time. At holy communion the ordained, before receiving the sacred host, say "Amen" to the formula and then kiss the bishop's ring.

After receiving communion they go to the epistle side of the altar to partake of some wine, not from the chalice which the bishop has consecrated, but from another containing ordinary wine. One of the assisting priests holds a chalice and a purificator in readiness for this purpose.

After taking the ablution and washing his hands, the bishop removes the mitre, stands at the epistle side, and intones the following responsories, which are continued by the choir (for the music see the music supplement):

Responsory

No longer do I call you servants * but my friends, for you have known all things I have wrought in your midst, (alleluia).*

Receive the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, within you. * It is He whom the Father will send to you, (alleluia).

V. You are my friends if you do the things that I command you. * Receive the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, within you.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. * It is He whom the Father will send to you, (alleluia).

The alleluia is omitted from Septuagesima to Easter.

Having said the responsory the bishop puts on the mitre, goes to the middle of the altar, and turns to the ordained. The latter now recite the Creed which is a summary of the faith they will henceforth preach:

I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell, the third day He arose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty, from there He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.

The Commission to Absolve

When the Creed is finished the bishop sits on the faldstool at the middle of the altar (he is wearing the mitre). As the ordained kneel before him one by one, he places both his hands on the head of the ordained and says to each one:

Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you shall forgive, they are forgiven them; and whose sins you shall retain, they are retained.

Then the bishop unfolds the chasuble, which the ordained has worn folded on his shoulders until now; and as he lets the chasuble drop at the back he says to each one:

The Lord clothe you with the robe of innocence.

The Promise of Obedience

Then each of the ordained comes again before the bishop, kneels and places his folded hands between the hands of the bishop. If the bishop is the Ordinary of the ordained he says to him:

Do you promise me and my successors reverence and obedience?

The priest replies: I promise.

But if the bishop is not the Ordinary of the newly ordained he says to him as he holds his hands (if he is a secular priest):

Do you promise reverence and obedience to the bishop who is your Ordinary for the time being? R: I promise.

Or he says to a priest of a religious order:

Do you promise reverence and obedience to the prelate who is your Ordinary for the time being? R: I promise.

Then the bishop, still holding the newly ordained's hands within his own, kisses him on the right cheek, saying:

The peace of the Lord be always with you.

The ordained responds: Amen.

Admonition and Blessing

Afterward when the ordained have returned to their place, the bishop sits down, puts on the mitre, takes the crozier, and addresses the ordained as follows:

My dear sons, as the office you are undertaking is hazardous enough, I admonish you, before you begin to celebrate Mass, to learn carefully from other experienced priests the ritual of the whole Mass--the consecration, the breaking of the host, and the communion.

The bishop rises, and retaining the mitre and crozier, blesses the priests who kneel before him, saying in a loud voice:

May the blessing of almighty God, Father,   Son,   and Holy   Spirit   come upon you, that you may be blessed in the priestly order, and may offer for the sins and transgressions of the people appeasing sacrifices to almighty God, to whom be honor and glory forever and ever.

All: Amen.

At the end of Mass the bishop gives the pontifical blessing in the usual way:

B: Blessed be the name of the Lord.

All: Now and forevermore.

B: Our help is in the name of the Lord. All: Who made heaven and earth.

B: May almighty God bless you, the Father,   Son,   and Holy   Spirit.

All: Amen.

Final Exhortation

The bishop sits down and speaks a final word to the ordained, saying:

My dear sons, ponder well the order you have taken and the burden laid on your shoulders. Strive to lead a holy and devout life, and to please almighty God, that you may obtain His grace. May He in His kindness deign to bestow it on you.

Now that you have been ordained to the priesthood, may I ask you, after you have offered your first Mass, to celebrate three other Masses, namely, one in honor of the Holy Spirit, a second in honor of blessed Mary, ever a Virgin, and a third for the faithful departed. I ask you also to pray to almighty God for me.

Mass is concluded as usual.