Ordination as a priest

Definition

Ordination as a priest is the formal process through which an individual is consecrated and empowered to perform religious duties, particularly within the Christian tradition. This significant event typically involves the laying on of hands by a bishop or other ecclesiastical authority and signifies the individual’s commitment to lead a spiritual life and serve the church community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Donne was ordained as a priest in the Church of England in 1615, which marked a significant shift in his life after years of pursuing secular ambitions.
2. Donne's ordination played a crucial role in his writing, as many of his sermons and poems reflect his deep spiritual insights and theological concerns.
3. As a priest, Donne served as the Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral in London, where he became influential in both religious and literary circles.
4. His experiences in ministry provided him with unique perspectives on love, death, and faith, which are central themes in his poetry.
5. The act of ordination not only transformed Donne's personal life but also solidified his place within the broader literary tradition of metaphysical poetry.

Review Questions

• How did John Donne's ordination as a priest influence his literary works?
  • John Donne's ordination as a priest had a profound impact on his literary works by infusing them with spiritual depth and theological reflection. After becoming ordained, his writings began to explore themes of love, faith, mortality, and the human relationship with God. This shift is evident in both his poetry and sermons, where he grapples with complex emotions and existential questions, ultimately reflecting his dual identity as both a cleric and a poet.
• Discuss the significance of John Donne's role as Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral following his ordination.
  • As Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral, John Donne held a prominent position that allowed him to influence both religious practices and literary culture in early 17th-century England. His leadership at the cathedral was marked by eloquent preaching and engagement with contemporary issues, making him a pivotal figure in the Church of England. This role further cemented his connection to the metaphysical poetry movement, where he was able to articulate profound spiritual insights to both his congregation and a broader audience.
• Analyze how John Donne’s ordination reflects the tension between secular ambition and spiritual vocation in his life.
  • John Donne's ordination illustrates the tension between his earlier secular ambitions and his eventual embrace of spiritual vocation. Initially pursuing a career in law and seeking social advancement, he faced challenges that led him to reassess his life's purpose. His ordination symbolizes this transformative journey, marking a departure from worldly pursuits towards a commitment to faith and service. This conflict is often mirrored in his poetry, where he grapples with desires for earthly love against the call for divine connection, ultimately showcasing the struggle between human aspiration and spiritual duty.

Related terms

Episcopal Church: A denomination within the Anglican Communion that emphasizes apostolic succession and the sacramental nature of ordination.

Sacrament: A religious rite recognized as having divine significance, often seen as a means of grace in various Christian traditions.

Vocation: A calling or purpose in life, particularly in a religious context, where individuals feel led to serve in roles such as ministry or priesthood.