What is Apostolic Succession in the Catholic Church?

Summary

Jared Deese from thereligionteacher.com explains the concept of apostolic succession in the Church. It refers to the uninterrupted line of authority from the apostles to the current bishops, particularly the Bishop of Rome, or the Pope. This succession is symbolized by the sacrament of holy orders, where authority is passed down through the laying on of hands. The Holy Spirit guides the bishops in interpreting teachings and scripture, ensuring the Church's continuity with its apostolic origins.

Takeaways

• 🔗 Apostolic Succession refers to the historical line of authority within the Church, tracing back to the apostles.
• 🛇 The term 'apostolic church' signifies that the Church's leadership is directly descended from the apostles.
• 👨‍🏫 Saint Peter, one of the apostles, appointed a successor before his death, establishing a lineage of bishops leading to the current Pope.
• 🤲 The sacrament of Holy Orders symbolizes the passing of authority through the laying on of hands, a practice mentioned in the New Testament.
• 👥 This practice of laying on hands was used by the apostles to delegate authority to other leaders, who became bishops.
• 🌟 The Holy Spirit, given to the apostles, continues to guide the bishops in interpreting Church teachings and scripture.
• 🔑 Apostolic succession is crucial for the belief in the continuity and authority of the Church from the time of the apostles to the present.
• 🌐 The Church's universality (catholicity) is linked with its apostolicity, emphasizing a global and historical unity.
• 🕊 The authority of the Church, as given by Jesus to the apostles, is maintained through this succession, ensuring the Church's teachings remain authentic.
• 📖 The concept of apostolic succession is a testament to the enduring legacy and influence of the apostles in the modern Church.

Q & A

What is Apostolic Succession?

Apostolic Succession refers to the authority that bishops have as leaders of the church, which is believed to be traceable back to the apostles through a continuous line of bishops, including the Pope as the bishop of Rome.

Why is the term 'apostolic' used in the description of the church?

The term 'apostolic' is used because it signifies that the church's authority and teachings can be traced back to the apostles, emphasizing the historical continuity and legitimacy of the church's leadership.

Who is Saint Peter in the context of Apostolic Succession?

Saint Peter is considered the first bishop of Rome, and his appointment of a successor to lead the church after his death is a foundational example of Apostolic Succession.

How is the authority of the church leaders passed down according to the script?

The authority is passed down through the sacrament of holy orders, which involves the laying on of hands, symbolizing the transfer of authority as teachers, preachers, and leaders in the church.

What is the significance of the laying on of hands in the context of the church?

The laying on of hands is a sacramental act that symbolizes the passing down of authority and the Holy Spirit's presence in the church, as it was done by the apostles and continues through the bishops today.

How does the Holy Spirit work through the bishops according to the script?

The Holy Spirit works through the bishops to help interpret the teachings of the church and scripture, just as it was given to the apostles, ensuring the continuity of divine guidance.

What is the importance of Apostolic Succession for the believers?

Apostolic Succession is important because it provides a direct link between the modern church and the apostles, affirming the church's divine authority and the validity of its teachings.

How does the script connect the authority of the church today to the 12 apostles?

The script connects the authority of the church today to the 12 apostles by illustrating the unbroken chain of bishops succeeding one another, starting with the apostles and continuing to the current bishops and the Pope.

What role does the Pope play in the concept of Apostolic Succession?

The Pope plays a central role as the bishop of Rome and the successor of Saint Peter, embodying the continuation of apostolic authority within the Catholic Church.

Why is it crucial for the church to maintain this line of succession?

Maintaining the line of succession is crucial as it upholds the integrity and continuity of the church's teachings, ensuring that the faith remains true to its origins as established by Jesus and the apostles.

How does the concept of Apostolic Succession relate to the mission of the church?

Apostolic Succession relates to the mission of the church by ensuring that the teachings and practices are guided by the same authority and spirit that were present at its founding, thus preserving the church's mission to make disciples.