What is the fundamental definition of ordination?

Ordination is the process by which individuals are consecrated, meaning they are set apart and elevated from the laity to the clergy. This consecration typically authorizes them to perform religious rites and ceremonies, usually under the direction of a denominational hierarchy.

An ordinand is an individual who is in the process of preparing for or undergoing ordination. This term refers to the candidate before they have completed the consecration ceremony.

What is an Ordinal in the context of religious services?

An Ordinal is a book that contains the liturgy, or the specific ritual and rubrics, for celebrations of ordination. It serves as a guide for the ceremonies involved in consecrating individuals for religious service.

How is ordination viewed in the Catholic and Orthodox churches?

In Catholicism and Orthodoxy, ordination is considered one of the seven sacraments, referred to as holy orders or cheirotonia, which translates to Laying on of Hands. This sacrament confers spiritual authority and consecration for ministry.

What are the three orders of ordination within Holy Orders in Catholic and Orthodox traditions?

The three orders within Holy Orders are deacon, presbyter (commonly known as priest), and bishop. Both bishops and presbyters are considered priests with the authority to celebrate the Eucharist.

What is the concept of Apostolic Succession and its importance in certain Christian traditions?

Apostolic Succession is the belief that ordained clergy are successors to the Apostles, tracing their authority back through an unbroken line of bishops ordained by other bishops, ultimately to Christ himself. This is considered essential for ordination in Catholic, Orthodox, High Church Lutheran, Moravian, and Anglican traditions.

How many bishops are typically required for the ordination of a bishop versus a priest or deacon in Catholic and Orthodox churches?

The ordination of a bishop, also called a consecration, is traditionally performed by several bishops, with ancient sources specifying at least three. The ordination of a priest or deacon, however, is typically performed by a single bishop.

What is the difference between transitional and permanent deacons in the Catholic Church?

In the Catholic Church, transitional deacons are those preparing for ordination to the priesthood. Permanent deacons are men who are ordained deacons and intend to remain in that office, often being married before ordination.

What was Pope Leo XIII's declaration regarding Anglican orders, and how has the Catholic Church's stance evolved?

In 1896, Pope Leo XIII declared Anglican orders 'absolutely null and utterly void' in his papal bull *Apostolicae Curae*. While this statement has not been officially retracted, subsequent actions by Popes, such as gifting ecclesiastical symbols to the Archbishop of Canterbury and allowing Anglican bishops to celebrate Mass in a papal basilica, suggest a softening of the Roman view.

What is the Catholic Church's view on the validity of orders from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden and Finland?

The Catholic Church has not officially stated its judgment on the validity of orders from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden and Finland, though it questions how the 16th-century Reformation might have affected the apostolicity of their ministry.

How do Eastern Orthodox churches differ in their recognition of Catholic and Anglican ordinations?

Some Eastern Orthodox churches recognize Catholic ordinations, while others re-ordain Catholic and Anglican clergy who convert. However, both the Catholic and Anglican churches generally recognize Orthodox ordinations.

What are the traditional times for ordinations in Catholic and Anglican churches, and how does this compare to the Eastern Orthodox Church?

In Catholic and Anglican churches, ordinations have traditionally been held on Ember Days. In contrast, the Eastern Orthodox Church permits ordinations on any day the Divine Liturgy can be celebrated, though only one person may be ordained to each order per service.

What is the significance of the omophorion in Orthodox ordinations?

The omophorion, a liturgical vestment, is placed over the head of the candidate during Orthodox ordinations. For example, in the ordination of a deacon, the bishop places the omophorion over the candidate's head as a blessing before the Cheirotonia.

What is the primary purpose of ordination in most Protestant churches?

In most Protestant churches, ordination is a rite that recognizes and confirms an individual's divine call to ministry, acknowledges their training and discernment, and authorizes them to hold the office of ministry. This authorization is necessary for presiding at sacraments and serving as a pastor.

What are the three orders of ministry recognized in Presbyterian and Reformed churches?

Presbyterian and Reformed churches typically maintain a threefold order of ministry consisting of pastor, elder, and deacon. The pastor is considered clergy, while elders are lay persons ordained for church governance and spiritual care, and deacons are lay persons ordained for ministries of service.

How do bishops function in many Protestant denominations regarding ordination?

In many Protestant denominations, including some Lutheran and Methodist churches, the office of bishop is not considered a separate order of ministry. Instead, bishops are ordained ministers who have been consecrated or installed into the specific role or office of bishop.

How do Jehovah's Witnesses view baptism in relation to ordination?

Jehovah's Witnesses consider an adherent's baptism as their ordination as a minister. This baptism signifies their dedication and commitment to serving as a minister within their faith.

What are the two types of priesthood bestowed through ordination in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, ordination bestows either the Aaronic Priesthood or the Melchizedek Priesthood upon worthy male members. Both are considered essential for specific ministerial authorities and responsibilities.

What specific authorities are granted to a priest ordained into the Aaronic Priesthood in the LDS Church?

A priest ordained into the Aaronic Priesthood in the LDS Church is authorized to baptize converts and children over eight years old, bless and administer the sacrament (Lord's Supper), participate in or perform ordinations to the Aaronic Priesthood, and assist in collecting fast offerings.

What additional authorities are conferred with ordination to the Melchizedek Priesthood in the LDS Church?

Ordination to the Melchizedek Priesthood includes all the authorities of the Aaronic Priesthood, plus the power to ordain others to either priesthood, perform confirmations, bless and anoint the sick with oil, bless and dedicate graves, and perform other sacred rites.

Who is believed to have ordained Joseph Smith to the priesthood in the LDS tradition?

Latter-day Saints believe that Joseph Smith, the founder of the church, was ordained to the priesthood by angelic messengers identified as the Apostles Peter, James, and John in 1829.

Does Islam have a formal clergy or ordained religious leaders?

No, Islam does not have a formal clergy or ordained religious leaders. The faith rejects ordination as a distinct aspect of other religions.

What are common titles for religious leaders in Islam, and what do they signify?

Common titles for religious leaders in Islam include Imam, Sheikh, and Mawlana. Imam typically refers to someone who leads Muslims in prayer, Sheikh is an honorific for a male Islamic scholar or tribal leader, and Mawlana is a title for graduates of Islamic theological academies.

What is the Jewish term for the ordination of a rabbi, and what does it mean?

The Jewish term for the ordination of a rabbi is *semikhah*, derived from the Hebrew word for 'leaning' or 'laying [of the hands]'. It signifies the authorization of prospective rabbis as Jewish religious leaders.

What was the historical primary function of ordained rabbis in Judaism?

Historically, ordained rabbis primarily functioned as Jewish communities' decisors of Halakha (Jewish law) and as Torah teachers and scholars. Their presence was not always necessary for many religious observances, such as forming a prayer quorum (minyan).

What is the origin of the ordained monastic community in Buddhism?

The tradition of the ordained monastic community, known as the Sangha, began with the Buddha, who established orders for both monks and nuns.

What are the three intact ordination lineages mentioned in Buddhism?

The three intact ordination lineages in Buddhism, according to the text, are the Dharmaguptaka Lineage, the Mulasarvastivadin Lineage, and the Theravada Lineage.

What was the significance of the Mahayana ordination platform established at Enryaku-ji in Japan?

The Mahayana ordination platform, established at Enryaku-ji in 827 CE, was the first in Japan. It allowed for ordinations using the Bodhisattva precepts from the Brahma Net Sutra, differing from the Hinayana precepts previously used.

What is *pabbajjā* in the Theravada Buddhist tradition?

*Pabbajjā* is the ordination procedure for *samaneras*, who are novice monks within the Theravada tradition.

What is the current status of fully ordained nuns (bhikkhuni/bhiksuni) in different Buddhist traditions?

The legitimacy of fully ordained nuns is a significant topic. While the tradition of nuns remains strong in some traditions like Chinese Buddhism, it has died out in others, such as Theravada Buddhism. The Tibetan lineage did not receive the full ordination lineage from India, though efforts are being made to revive it.

What is the tradition of posthumous ordination in Medieval Sōtō Zen Buddhism?

In Medieval Sōtō Zen, posthumous ordination was developed to allow laypeople access to Zen funeral rites. By ordaining laypeople after their death, monastic funeral rites could be performed for them.

How does the ordination practice of the New Kadampa Tradition (NKT-IKBU) differ from traditional Buddhist ordination?

The NKT-IKBU's ordination is not traditional; it consists of the Five Precepts for laypersons plus five additional precepts created by Kelsang Gyatso. These are considered a condensation of the 253 Vinaya vows for fully ordained monks, and the NKT lacks formal guidelines for monastic behavior.

What factors are emphasized for ordination in Unitarian Universalism?

Unitarian Universalist ordinations focus less on doctrinal adherence and more on factors like possessing a Masters of Divinity degree from an accredited institution and demonstrating an understanding of ethics, spirituality, and humanity.

How do individual Unitarian Universalist congregations handle the ordination of ministers?

While the UUA Ministerial Fellowship Committee reviews candidates, individual UU congregations ultimately determine the ordination of their ministers. Congregations may even hire or ordain individuals who have not received UUA ministerial fellowship.

Why is the ordination of women often a controversial issue in religions?

The ordination of women is often controversial in religions where the clerical office or the roles of ordained individuals have traditionally been reserved for men, often due to theological reasons.

What historical evidence exists regarding women in early Christian ministry related to ordination?

Some historians mention that women were ordained as deacons in the first millennium of Christianity, suggesting a historical precedent for female roles in ministry.

How did the Protestant Reformation impact views on priesthood and the roles of women in ministry?

Following the Protestant Reformation, many Protestant groups re-evaluated the concept of priesthood. They often did away with the sacrificial aspect, favored a teaching-focused ministry, and many began to reconsider and eventually ordain women.

What is the Catholic Church's official position on the ordination of women?

The Catholic Church has maintained its practice of reserving ordination for men. Pope John Paul II affirmed in *Ordinatio Sacerdotalis* that the Holy Spirit had not conferred the power to ordain women upon the Church.

How do different denominations of Judaism approach the ordination of women?

Policies vary among Jewish denominations. Most Orthodox congregations do not permit female rabbis, while more liberal congregations began allowing female rabbis in the mid-twentieth century.

What is the general stance of Abrahamic religions on homosexuality in relation to ordination?

Most Abrahamic religions condemn homosexuality, and biblical interpretations have been used to support this view. However, interpretations vary significantly between and within denominations, influencing views on the ordination of LGBT persons.

When did some Christian and Jewish denominations begin ordaining openly LGBT persons?

Beginning in the late 20th century and continuing into the early 21st century, several mainline Protestant denominations and some Jewish movements in the US and Europe started endorsing the ordination of openly LGBT individuals.

Which specific Christian denominations were early adopters of ordaining openly LGBT clergy?

The United Church of Christ was among the first, ordaining an openly gay minister in 1972 and an openly lesbian minister in 1977.

What is the significance of the term *cheirotonia* in Christian ordination?

*Cheirotonia* is a Greek term used in Catholic and Orthodox traditions for ordination, specifically meaning 'Laying on of Hands'. It is associated with the sacrament of Holy Orders.

What is the role of the Pope in the consecration of a bishop in the Catholic Church?

The Pope's mandate or approval is required for the valid consecration of a bishop in the Catholic Church, serving as the guarantor of the Church's unity. While one bishop can consecrate another, the Apostolic See may dispense with the requirement of three bishops in exceptional circumstances.

What does the term 'ordinand' refer to in the context of religious rites?

An ordinand is an individual who is in the process of being ordained, meaning they are preparing for or undergoing the ceremony that consecrates them as clergy.

How do Protestant denominations that ordain deacons differ in their approach compared to those that do not?

Protestant traditions like Presbyterian, Reformed, Lutheran, Methodist, and many Baptist churches ordain deacons as lay persons for specific ministries of service and pastoral care, distinguishing this role from that of clergy.

What is the significance of *semikhah* in Judaism beyond just rabbinical ordination?

*Semikhah* is derived from the Hebrew word for 'leaning' or 'laying of hands', signifying authorization. While it leads to rabbinical ordination, it historically positioned rabbis as legal decisors and teachers of Torah, rather than priests in the Christian sense.

What are the core reasons cited for the ordination of ministers in most Protestant churches?

Ordination in most Protestant churches serves to recognize and confirm a divine call to ministry, acknowledge the individual's training and discernment process, and authorize them to hold the office of ministry, enabling them to preside at sacraments and lead congregations.

What is the difference between *cheirotonia* and *cheirothesia* in Eastern Orthodox ordination?

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, *cheirotonia* refers to the laying on of hands for the ordination of deacons, presbyters, and bishops. *Cheirothesia* is used for ordinations to minor orders, which are not considered part of the sacrament of Holy Orders.

What is the basis for some Protestant denominations ordaining women, referencing biblical figures?

Some Protestant and non-denominational organizations cite the leadership of figures like Deborah, a prophetess and judge in the Book of Judges, as a basis for ordaining women. However, this interpretation is debated, with others arguing Deborah's role was limited to private judgments and not public teaching or military leadership.

What is the primary difference in the ordination of bishops versus priests/deacons in Catholic and Orthodox traditions regarding the number of officiants?

The ordination of a bishop requires multiple bishops (traditionally at least three), symbolizing the continuity of the episcopate. In contrast, the ordination of a priest or deacon is typically performed by a single bishop.

Ordination Wiki: The Sacred Rite: A Scholarly Exploration of Ordination Across Faiths

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Christianity

Holy Orders

In Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Lutheranism, and Anglicanism, ordination is recognized as a sacrament, often termed "Holy Orders" or cheirotonia (laying on of hands). This process consecrates individuals, setting them apart from the laity for clerical roles and the performance of religious rites.^{^}

Apostolic Succession

A core tenet in Catholic, Orthodox, and some Anglican/Lutheran traditions is Apostolic Succession. This doctrine posits that ordained clergy trace their spiritual authority back through an unbroken line of bishops to the Apostles themselves, ultimately originating from Christ.^{^}^{^}^{^}

Hierarchical Orders

The sacrament typically involves three distinct orders: deacon, presbyter (priest), and bishop. Bishops and presbyters possess the authority to celebrate the Eucharist. While bishops are consecrated by multiple bishops (traditionally at least three), priests and deacons are usually ordained by a single bishop.^{^}^{^}^{^}

Protestant Perspectives

Most Protestant denominations view ordination as a rite recognizing God's call, confirming training (e.g., seminary completion), and authorizing individuals for ministry. While some retain episcopal structures, the concept of Apostolic Succession varies, and the emphasis is often on the minister's role in teaching and presiding over sacraments rather than a sacrificial priesthood.^{^}^{^}

Islam

Rejection of Formal Clergy

Islam fundamentally differs by not having a formal clergy class or a concept of ordination akin to other religions. Religious leadership roles are typically held by individuals known as Imams, Sheikhs, or Mawlanas, titles that do not imply a sacramental or divinely instituted ordination.^{^}

Roles and Titles

An Imam leads congregational prayers (salah), while a Sheikh is an honorific title for a respected male Islamic scholar or tribal leader. Graduation from an Islamic academy (madrasa) signifies scholarly achievement but does not constitute ordination.^{^}

Judaism

Semikhah: Rabbinical Ordination

In Judaism, the process of authorizing a rabbi is known as semikhah (Hebrew for 'leaning' or 'laying on of hands'). This confers the authority to serve as a community's decisor of Halakha (Jewish law) and as a Torah teacher.^{^}

Role of the Rabbi

Unlike priests, rabbis are primarily scholars and legal authorities. While essential for certain communal functions, their presence is not strictly required for many religious observances, as illustrated by the principle that a minyan (quorum of ten) can be formed by laypeople.^{^}

Cantorial Ordination

Some Jewish movements also use the term semikhah or semicha lehazzanut for the ordination of a hazzan (cantor), though some prefer the term "investiture" for this role.

Buddhism

Monastic Ordination (Sangha)

Buddhism established ordained monastic communities (sangha) for monks and nuns, guided by the Vinaya scriptures. Ordination procedures ensure adherence to the Buddha's teachings and maintain lineage integrity.^{^}

Lineages and Precepts

Key ordination lineages include Dharmaguptaka, Mulasarvastivadin, and Theravada. Mahayana traditions, like those in Japan, utilize specific ordination platforms and adhere to Bodhisattva precepts outlined in texts such as the Brahma Net Sutra.^{^}

Nuns' Ordination Debate

The legitimacy and continuity of the fully ordained nuns' lineage (bhikkhuni) is a subject of ongoing discussion, particularly in traditions where it has lapsed, such as Tibetan Buddhism. Efforts are underway in some quarters to revive or establish these lineages.^{^}

Latter-day Saints

Priesthood Authority

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ordains worthy male members to the Aaronic or Melchizedek Priesthood. This rite, performed by laying on of hands by authorized holders, bestows specific spiritual authority and responsibilities within the Church.^{^}

Priesthood Offices

The Melchizedek Priesthood includes offices such as Elder, High Priest, Patriarch, Seventy, and Apostle. Ordination grants authority to perform baptisms, administer the sacrament, bless the sick, and ordain others.^{^}

Lineage and Validity

Adherents believe in a direct line of authority tracing back to Jesus Christ, with founder Joseph Smith ordained by angelic messengers. Meticulous records are kept to ensure the validity and proper administration of ordinations.^{^}

Ordination of Women

Historical and Contemporary Views

The ordination of women is a significant theological and social issue across many religions. Historically, some Christian traditions recognized female deacons. Post-Reformation, many Protestant denominations re-evaluated traditional roles, leading to the ordination of women in numerous groups, though this remains contentious in others.^{^}

Denominational Differences

Practices vary widely. While denominations like the United Church of Canada and the Episcopal Church ordain women as deacons, priests, and bishops, others maintain male-only clergy. The Catholic and Orthodox churches, representing a significant portion of global Christianity, continue to reserve ordination to men, citing theological reasons.^{^}

Jewish and Other Traditions

In Judaism, policies differ among denominations, with Reform and Conservative movements ordaining women rabbis, while Orthodox Judaism generally does not. Buddhist traditions also grapple with the lineage and practice of nuns' ordination.^{^}

LGBT Clergy

Inclusion and Acceptance

In recent decades, several mainline Protestant denominations and some branches of Judaism have moved towards endorsing the ordination of openly LGBT individuals. This reflects evolving theological interpretations and societal views on sexuality and gender.^{^}

Varied Interpretations

Interpretations of religious texts regarding homosexuality vary significantly. While some denominations embrace inclusivity, others maintain traditional prohibitions, leading to diverse practices regarding the ordination of LGBT persons.^{^}

Historical Context

Ancient Roots

The practice of ordination has ancient roots, evolving within various religious traditions. Early Christianity saw the establishment of distinct clerical orders, while Judaism developed the concept of semikhah. Buddhist monastic traditions formalized ordination procedures based on the Vinaya.^{^}

Reformation and Modernity

The Protestant Reformation significantly altered views on priesthood and ordination in Christianity. Modernity has brought further shifts, including debates on women's and LGBT individuals' ordination, reflecting broader societal changes and theological re-evaluations.

Ritual and Meaning

Across faiths, ordination rituals—whether through laying on of hands, specific ceremonies, or symbolic acts—confer spiritual authority, define roles within the religious community, and ensure the continuity of tradition and doctrine.

Further Study

Related Concepts

Explore related topics such as ordination exams, statistical analyses of ordination trends, and the specific roles and structures within different religious leadership hierarchies.

External Resources

Consult resources from specific denominations like the Presbyterians (PCUSA) and the Lutheran Evangelical Protestant Church (LEPC) for detailed perspectives on their ordination practices.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Ordination" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about ordination while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

chiaiano

24 tv series

opium

andrew jackson and slavery

References

SÃ©bastien Fath, Une autre maniÃ¨re d'Ãªtre chrÃ©tien en France: socio-histoire de l'implantation baptiste, 1810â1950, Editions Labor et Fides, GenÃ¨ve, 2001, p. 578

William H. Brackney, Historical Dictionary of the Baptists, Scarecrow Press, USA, 2009, p. 431

Shane Clifton, Pentecostal Churches in Transition: Analysing the Developing Ecclesiology of the Assemblies of God in Australia, BRILL, Netherlands, 2009, p. 134

"Question Box", Our Kingdom Ministry, November 1973, page 8, "Weddings and funerals may be conducted by any dedicated, baptized brother as permitted by law."

William M. Bodiford, Soto Zen in Medieval Japan (Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press, 1993), 195â96.

Realising the Guru's Intention: Hungry Humans and Awkward Animals in a New Kadampa Tradition community by Carol McQuire, in Spiritual and Visionary Communities â Out to Save the World, Ashgate Publishing, 2013, pp. 72â73

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ordination Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content was generated by an AI for educational and informational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to academic standards, it does not constitute professional theological, historical, or legal advice.

This is not religious counsel. The information presented here is not a substitute for consultation with qualified religious scholars, leaders, or legal experts. Views expressed in specific traditions may differ, and this overview aims for neutrality and breadth.

The creators are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Sacred Rite

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Christianity ✝️

⛪ Holy Orders

🔗 Apostolic Succession

🪜 Hierarchical Orders

📜 Protestant Perspectives

Islam ☪️

🚫 Rejection of Formal Clergy

👤 Roles and Titles

Judaism ✡️

📜 Semikhah: Rabbinical Ordination

👨‍🏫 Role of the Rabbi

🎶 Cantorial Ordination

Buddhism ☸️

🧘 Monastic Ordination (Sangha)

📜 Lineages and Precepts

👩‍🦲 Nuns' Ordination Debate

Latter-day Saints ⭐

🔑 Priesthood Authority

➡️ Priesthood Offices

⏳ Lineage and Validity

Ordination of Women 👩‍💼

⚖️ Historical and Contemporary Views

🌍 Denominational Differences

📜 Jewish and Other Traditions

LGBT Clergy 🏳️‍🌈

🤝 Inclusion and Acceptance

🗣️ Varied Interpretations

Historical Context ⏳

🏛️ Ancient Roots

🔄 Reformation and Modernity

📖 Ritual and Meaning

Further Study 📚

📝 Related Concepts

🌐 External Resources

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Christianity

Holy Orders

Apostolic Succession

Hierarchical Orders

Protestant Perspectives

Islam

Rejection of Formal Clergy

Roles and Titles

Judaism

Semikhah: Rabbinical Ordination

Role of the Rabbi

Cantorial Ordination

Buddhism

Monastic Ordination (Sangha)

Lineages and Precepts

Nuns' Ordination Debate

Latter-day Saints

Priesthood Authority

Priesthood Offices

Lineage and Validity

Ordination of Women

Historical and Contemporary Views

Denominational Differences

Jewish and Other Traditions

LGBT Clergy

Inclusion and Acceptance

Varied Interpretations

Historical Context

Ancient Roots

Reformation and Modernity

Ritual and Meaning

Further Study

Related Concepts

External Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice