Ordination is a sacred rite within the Christian tradition, signifying the setting apart and consecration of individuals for specific roles within the ministry of the Church. This practice finds its roots in both the Old and New Testaments, where the laying on of hands and prayer are used to commission individuals for divine service.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of ordination is deeply embedded in the Old Testament, particularly in the consecration of priests. In Exodus 28:41 , God commands Moses, "After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them, so they may serve Me as priests." This act of ordination involved anointing with oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and setting apart for holy service. The Levitical priesthood was established through such ordination, emphasizing the importance of divine appointment and sanctification for those serving in God's presence.

New Testament Practice

In the New Testament, ordination continues as a vital practice for the early Church. Jesus Himself chose and appointed the apostles, as seen in Mark 3:14 : "He appointed twelve whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach." This selection and commissioning by Christ set a precedent for the Church's practice of ordination.

The Book of Acts provides further insight into the early Church's ordination practices. In Acts 6:6 , the apostles laid hands on the seven chosen to serve, praying over them to commission them for their ministry: "They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them." This act of laying on of hands became a significant ritual, symbolizing the impartation of authority and the Holy Spirit's empowerment for ministry.

Theological Significance

Ordination holds profound theological significance within the Church. It is not merely a human appointment but a recognition of God's calling and gifting. In 1 Timothy 4:14 , Paul exhorts Timothy, "Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given you through prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you." This passage underscores the belief that ordination involves the recognition and affirmation of spiritual gifts bestowed by God.

Furthermore, ordination serves as a means of maintaining order and authority within the Church. In Titus 1:5 , Paul instructs Titus, "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you." This directive highlights the role of ordination in establishing leadership and governance within the Christian community.

Symbolism and Ritual

The ritual of ordination often includes the laying on of hands, prayer, and sometimes anointing with oil. These elements symbolize the transmission of spiritual authority, the invocation of the Holy Spirit, and the setting apart of the individual for sacred service. The laying on of hands, in particular, is a tangible expression of the Church's recognition and support of the ordained individual's ministry.

Role and Responsibility

Those who are ordained are entrusted with significant responsibilities, including preaching, teaching, administering the sacraments, and shepherding the flock. In 2 Timothy 4:2 , Paul charges Timothy, "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." This charge reflects the weighty responsibility borne by those who are ordained to lead and nurture the Church.

Conclusion

Ordination remains a vital and sacred practice within the Christian tradition, serving as a means of recognizing and affirming God's call on individuals for ministry. Through ordination, the Church upholds the biblical principles of divine appointment, spiritual empowerment, and the orderly governance of the Christian community.