Which is the third and lowest degree of Holy Orders that includes preaching, distributing the Eucharist, and presiding over baptisms and funerals?

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

Answer: (C)

The picture here is about the levels of ordained ministry and what each level does. The order starts with the deacon, then the priest, then the bishop. A deacon is the one who preaches and helps with the Eucharist, and who can preside at baptisms and funerals. These duties show a combination of teaching, service, and liturgical support that characterizes the deacon’s role. Priests celebrate the Eucharist in full and administer most sacraments, while bishops oversee a whole diocese. Cardinals are a senior title within the clergy, not a separate level of Holy Orders with different liturgical duties.

So, the description fits the deacon best because this degree is specifically associated with preaching, assisting at the Eucharist, and leading baptisms and funerals.