Bishop

Bishops are the successors of the apostles by divine institution. Through the Holy Spirit who has been given to them, bishops have been constituted true and authentic teachers of the faith, pontiffs, and pastors (CCC 1555–1558).

The Fullness of Holy Orders

Episcopal consecration confers, together with the office of sanctifying, also the offices of teaching and ruling. It makes the bishop a member of the episcopal college and the visible head of the particular Church (diocese) entrusted to him, where he exercises his ministry as the foundation of unity (CCC 1557–1560).

The Successor of the Apostles

The mission of the Apostles continues through the bishops. As the primary teachers of the Gospel, bishops have the responsibility to preserve the Deposit of Faith and to guide the faithful in communion with the Pope, the successor of Peter (CCC 881–882).

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can ordain a bishop? For the episcopal ordination to be valid, it must be performed by other validly ordained bishops and requires the approval of the Pope (CCC 1559).

What is a "cathedra"? A cathedra is the bishop's chair in the principal church of the diocese (the cathedral), symbolizing his teaching authority and pastoral power (CCC 1182).