| What's the
difference between a Diocesan and a
Religious Order priest? At the
basic level, they really are exactly
the same- all Catholic Priests,
whether a Diocesan Priest, or a
priest in a religious order can
administer the same sacraments.
On a deeper level, there are some
differences.
Diocesan Priests
often minister in parishes and run
parochial schools, although there
are some exceptions. They are
sometimes referred to as "secular
clergy" as their 'off time'
resembles the life everyday people:
they live in a house, either
alone or with other priests that
they work with, and they are allowed
to own cars and other personal
possessions.
Religious Order Priests
often minister in what are known
as "non-parochial" ministries, which
means not in parishes or schools,
although here to there are some
exceptions.
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Religious Life |
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Religious order priests take vows
promising to live a simple life, to
undertake charitable works, and often
live "in community" with many other
members of their community. Their
work varies, and is dependent on the
'charism' of their order:
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Jesuits teach and do social
justice work,
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Franciscans do missionary
work and work with the poor,
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Benedictines start parishes
where they are needed, educate,
and pray.
Like diocesan priests, you will find
religious order priests working in a
variety of administrative,
education, and other corporate works
of the church or their order. |
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Diocesan Priesthood |
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The Diocese structure is designed to
assure that there are priests and
parishes available to the faithful
within it's boundaries - therefore
the first function of a Diocese is
to be sure there are parishes, and
priests to staff them. Some
diocesan clergy work in other
capacities - administrative, canon
law, seminary education and diocesan
administration. |
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