The permanent deacon also receives the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Deacons assist at Mass, preach, witness marriages, and baptize. The deacons of the Church live out their vocations in the world, either married or single. Many have careers outside the Church, in addition to their commitment to the Parish. If married, a deacon's wife also makes a commitment to support her husband in his ministry to the Church. For more information on becoming a deacon, visit the Diaconate Formation page on the Archdiocese of Milwaukee's website.
While religious brothers and sisters do not receive a Sacrament, their witness and fidelity to the Church are indispensible. Their lives give witness to Christ and His ardent love of all people. If you are interested in vocations to the consecrated life, check out the Archdiocesan Vocations page or United States Council of Catholic Bishops for more information.
Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, priests are ordained to take on the character of Christ and serve the Church. The priest bravely stands in as Christ during many of the most profound moments of people's lives: baptism, marriage, death. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about becoming a priest, please visit the Archdiocese's
Think Priest website.
Since its cornerstone was laid in 1855, Saint Francis de Sales Seminary has served as a point of navigation, both physically and spiritually, for men seeking The Way. See its mission beautifully portrayed in a 5-minute film, Drop Anchor, at www.sfs.edu. This locally-produced film with an original song premiered at the Annual Seminary Dinner in September 2015, and has now been seen in over 50 countries! Please support vocations to the priesthood by watching the film and sharing the link. Visit www.sfs.edu for more information.
Please join us in praying for the renewal of vocations throughout the Church: Vocation Prayers