Reader Question: What Are the Types of Ordination?

A reader writes:

Have you ever heard of a type of priestly ordination called "Promised"? The pastor of our local parish recently resigned, and I've heard that he only had a "promised" ordination.

He said Mass for years, and heard Confessions, and performed all of the sacraments (to my knowledge). I know he said Mass since I attended dozens of his Masses.

Not knowing the details of the particular circumstances that the reader is referring to, I can only answer the question in the abstract. Perhaps a better way to state it is: Are there different types of ordinations? The answer to that question is yes.

There are three different types of Holy Orders: the ordination of deacons; the ordination of priests; and the ordination of bishops. A man can receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders three times, once at each level. (Archbishops, cardinals, and even popes are not ordained to their offices but simply "elevated" or "installed.")

All of these types of ordinations, however, are actual, and not "promised." A man can be promised (a verb) ordination as a deacon, priest, or bishop; but there is no such thing as a "promised" (an adjective) ordination.

In the wake of a resignation of a pastor, it's not surprising that rumors might spread. If the pastor was hearing Confessions and saying Mass, however, the diocese must have been convinced that he had a valid priestly ordination.

If you have a question that you would like to have featured in our Friday "Reader Questions" series, send me an e-mail at catholicism.guide@about.com. Be sure to put "QUESTION" in the subject line, and please note whether you'd like me to address it privately or on the Catholicism blog.