Which is the lowest degree of Holy Orders?

• A. Priest
• B. Bishop
• C. Deacon
• D. Cardinal

Answer: (C)

The lowest degree of Holy Orders is the one that begins the ordained path: deacon. Holy Orders are three levels in order: deacon, priest, and bishop. A deacon is ordained to serve and assist in the community and during the liturgy, and to perform certain duties like baptisms and assisting at weddings and in charitable works. They do not have the full sacramental authority of a priest, such as celebrating the Eucharist or granting absolution, which belong to priests and bishops. A priest is next, with the authority to celebrate the Eucharist and administer most of the sacraments, and a bishop has the fullness of the sacrament and oversees a diocese. Cardinal, on the other hand, is not a degree of Holy Orders; it’s an office or rank within Church governance, usually held by bishops or priests, and it relates to responsibilities and advisory roles rather than a level of ordination.