CCC 1583

It is true that someone validly ordained can, for a just reason, be discharged from the obligations and functions linked to ordination, or can be forbidden to exercise them; but he cannot become a layman again in the strict sense,⁷⁵ Cf. CIC, cann. 290-293; 1336 # 1 3, 5, 1338 # 2; Council of Trent DS 1774DS — Denzinger–Schönmetzer (Enchiridion Symbolorum). because the character imprinted by ordination is for ever. the vocation and mission received on the day of his ordination mark him permanently.