Episode Details

Episode 14 – The Sacrament of Holy Orders

Our presenter, James Seghers, explains the priesthood and The Sacrament of Holy Orders in this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series.

Sacraments of Holy Orders and Holy Matrimony are two sacraments of service ordered to the salvation of others—matrimony to one’s spouse and children with the self-donating love of Jesus. Priests are uniquely conformed to the cross of Christ in order to pour themselves out for the salvation of the heavenly bridegroom’s bride—the church—and they do this in the “person” of Jesus.

St. Paul touches on this transformation, “I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.” (Galatians 6:17). James discusses the unique gift of the Holy Spirit given to priests to function in the person of Jesus. He also discusses the role of the priest in the Old Testament, beginning with Moses.

James mentions that Sacred Scripture teaches us that Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek (in Genesis 14:18–20, Melchizedek brings out bread and wine and then blesses Abram and El Elyon.) Jesus, by a single offering, has perfected for all time those who are sanctified, and the sacrifice of Jesus is made present in the Eucharistic sacrifice of the church—the Mass. James continues to explain the hierarchy of the Holy Orders and how the rites of ordination function.

This is the 14^th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.

Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.

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