# Presbyter ## Catechism of the Catholic Church An "elder" or priest, a member of the order of priesthood; the presbyterate is one of the three degrees of the Sacrament of [[holy-orders|Holy Orders]] ([[2.2.3.6.p4r#^ccc-1536|1536]], [[2.2.3.6.p4u#^ccc-1554|1554]]). Presbyters or priests are co-workers with their bishops and form a unique sacerdotal college or "presbyterium" dedicated to assist their bishops in priestly service to the People of God ([[2.2.3.6.p4u#^ccc-1567|1567]]). Through the ministry of priests, the unique sacrifice of Christ on the cross is made present in the Eucharistic sacrifice of the Church ([[2.2.3.6.p4u#^ccc-1554|1554]], [[2.2.3.6.p4u#^ccc-1562|1562]]). _See_ Priesthood.