commits himself to a particular Diocese and its people. In this, he joins in the ministry of the bishop within that Diocese. This ordained ministry includes celebrating the Sacraments, proclaiming God's Word and being a pastor (servant-leader) for a community. Normally this service takes place within a parish, though some are involved in a variety of other ministries (chaplains, teachers, missions, etc.).

an ordained man who lives and ministers in a geographic area which is called a diocese, under the leadership and authority of the bishop of the diocese to which he belongs

an ordinary man called to an extraordinary ministry

a priest ordained to serve a diocese or faith community like the Archdiocese of New Orleans

A man who desires to bring God to people and people to God through the sharing of word and sacrament. As a servant-leader, a priest is called to proclaim and celebrate the Good News among God’s people. He usually is incardinated into a particular diocese and serves a parish community, though he may also serve as a teacher, hospital or prison chaplain, campus minister, and administrator of various diocesan programs and offices. A diocesan priest makes a promise of obedience to the bishop and to his successor as well as a promise to live a life of celibacy.