Minor orders meaning

Minor orders are ecclesiastical roles or duties performed by clerics below the rank of deacon in the Catholic Church.


Minor orders definitions

Word backwards ronim sredro
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division mi-nor or-ders
Plural The plural of the word minor orders is "ministrations."
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) i,o,e
Consonants (5) m,n,r,d,s

Minor orders refer to the lower ranks of the sacrament of Holy Orders in the Catholic Church. These orders are typically received by men who are preparing for the priesthood. Minor orders serve as stepping stones towards the higher orders of deacon, priest, and bishop, and are seen as important stages in the formation of a candidate for the priesthood.

Acolyte is one of the minor orders conferred in the Catholic Church. An acolyte is responsible for assisting the priest or deacon during liturgical celebrations. They may carry the cross, candles, and incense during the Mass, as well as perform other duties to ensure the smooth running of the liturgy.

Types of Minor Orders

Other minor orders include lector, porter, and exorcist. A lector is entrusted with reading the Scriptures during Mass, while a porter is responsible for guarding the church and its sacred vessels. The order of exorcist involves assisting in the deliverance of individuals from evil spirits.

History of Minor Orders

The minor orders have a long history in the Church, with their origins dating back to the early centuries of Christianity. In the past, these orders were seen as essential for the proper functioning of the liturgy and the administration of the sacraments. Over time, however, the minor orders fell out of common practice in the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church.

Pope Paul VI reformed the sacrament of Holy Orders in 1972 with the apostolic letter "Ministeria Quaedam," which abolished the traditional minor orders and replaced them with the ministries of lector and acolyte. These ministries are open to both men and women and are no longer considered steps towards the priesthood.

Significance of Minor Orders

While the traditional minor orders may no longer be conferred in the Catholic Church, their significance is still recognized in the history and development of the sacrament of Holy Orders. The duties and responsibilities associated with the minor orders continue to inform the roles of those who serve in liturgical ministries today.


Minor orders Examples

  1. The deacon received the minor orders before being ordained as a priest.
  2. In the Catholic Church, the minor orders include acolyte, exorcist, lector, and porter.
  3. Historically, the minor orders were seen as steps towards the priesthood.
  4. The role of the minor orders in the church has evolved over time.
  5. Some Christian denominations still maintain the tradition of minor orders.
  6. Receiving the minor orders is a significant milestone for those pursuing religious vocations.
  7. The minor orders are considered important for the spiritual formation of clergy.
  8. Candidates for the minor orders undergo specific training and preparation.
  9. The minor orders are conferred through a formal ceremony in the church.
  10. Each of the minor orders carries its own responsibilities and duties within the church.


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  • Updated 17/05/2024 - 09:16:21