"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: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate" (CCC 1536). The Deacons, Priests, and Bishop comprise the Diocesan Clergy, for they work for the Diocese maintaining the parishes of the Diocese.  Diocesan priests are the most common in the world and serve as a sort of "spiritual general practitioner."

There are also many Religious Orders that specialize in some element of ministry (education, prayer, hospitals, the poor, etc.). These orders are usually named after their founders and so have names like: Franciscans, Claretians, Benedictines, etc.

Because the number of Religious Orders is so large, it can be hard to know exactly where God may be calling you.  Below is the contact information for our Diocesan Vocation Director.  He will be able to help you in whatever state of discernment you may be in, whether just looking at options, or if you feel ready to apply.  There are also two links to the Diocesan pages that list the female and male religious orders in our area.

Of course, you are also welcome to talk to one of our priests, just let us know.