Holy Orders

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the continuation of Jesus Christ's priesthood which He bestowed upon His Apostles.  In the Catholic Church, the word ordination is reserved for the sacramental act which integrates a man into the order of bishops, priests, or deacons. It confers a gift of the Holy Spirit that permits the exercise of a "sacred power" which can come only from Christ himself through His Church. The laying on of hands by the bishop with the consecratory prayer, constitutes the visible sign of this ordination.
 (Catechism of the Catholic Church)

You may learn more about Holy Orders and ordination to the priesthood, or deaconate by visiting the Diocese of Manchester's website.