Catholic Dictionary

Bishop

From the Greek word "episcopos" meaning "overseer".
 
Bishops receive from Jesus the fullness of the Sacrament of Holy Orders, through which they become members of the episcopal college and succesors of the apostles. They receive the same ministry as the twelve apostles did. They are in charge of a particular Church and (as the twelve apostles did) as members of the college of bishops, they are in charge of the Universal Church.
 
The 2nd Vatican Council says:
 
“As legitimate successors of the Apostles and members of the episcopal college, bishops should realize that they are bound together and should manifest a concern for all the churches. For by divine institution and the rule of the apostolic office each one together with all the other bishops is responsible for the Church. Let bishops, therefore, make every effort to have the faithful actively support and promote works of evangelization and the apostolate. (CD, 6)
 

“Among the principal duties of bishops the preaching of the Gospel occupies an eminent place.” (LG, 25)


Related topics ChurchCatholic ,  Marks of the ChurchHoly Orders, Each particular Church is “catholic"             

Last Modified 8/2/07 7:49 AM