No. 1547:
The ministerial or hierarchical priesthood of bishops and
priests, and the common priesthood of all the faithful participate, “each in
its own proper way, in the one priesthood of Christ.” While being “ordered
one to another,” they differ essentially. In what sense? While the common
priesthood of the faithful is exercised by the unfolding of baptismal grace–
–a life of faith, hope and charity, a life according to the Spirit––, the
ministerial priesthood is at the service of the common priesthood. It is
directed at the unfolding of the baptismal grace of all Christians. The
ministerial priesthood is a means by which Christ unceasingly builds up
and leads his Church. For this reason it is transmitted by its own sacrament,
the sacrament of Holy Orders.
 |
 |
 |