Ordainment

Ordainment refers to the act or process of officially conferring religious authority or a sacred office upon a person. This is most commonly understood within the context of Christian traditions, particularly within denominations that practice an ordained ministry. The ceremony typically involves a bishop or other senior religious leader laying hands on the candidate, often accompanied by prayer and the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Ordainment signifies the individual's qualification and commissioning to perform specific religious duties, such as administering sacraments, preaching, and leading a congregation.

The specific theological understanding and practices surrounding ordainment vary significantly between different Christian denominations. Some traditions view ordainment as a sacrament, a visible sign of an invisible grace, while others see it as a rite of ordination or a commissioning service. The concept is not unique to Christianity; similar processes of consecration or investiture exist in other religions to signify the designation of individuals for spiritual roles. Regardless of the specific religious context, ordainment generally marks a transition from a secular or lay status to a recognized spiritual leadership position within a religious community. The act is intended to be a public declaration and a spiritual empowerment for the one being ordained.