Holy Orders

331. How is the sacrament of Holy Orders celebrated? 1572-1574 1597 The sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred, in each of its three degrees, by means of the imposition of hands on the head of the ordinand by the Bishop who pronounces the solemn prayer of consecration. With this prayer he asks God on behalf of the ordinand for the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit and for the gifts of the Spirit proper to the ministry to which he is being ordained. 332. Who can confer this sacrament? 1575-1576 1600 Only validly ordained bishops, as successors of the apostles, can confer the sacrament of Holy Orders. 333. Who can receive this sacrament? 1577-1578 1598 This sacrament can only be validly received by a baptized man. The Church recognizes herself as bound by this choice made by the Lord Himself. No one can demand to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders, but must be judged suitable for the ministry by the authorities of the Church.