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JUBILEE TEACHING

Bishops: community leaders

JUBILEE TEACHING FOR JUNE 29, 2008 | 13TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

The word bishop comes from the Greek, and it has the meaning of inspector, overseer or superintendent. In the writings of the early church, the terms bishop (episcopes) and priest (presbyter) were interchangeable. However, as early as the second century, Christians began to distinguish between these two roles. “Priests of the second grade” became what we know as priests; “priests of the first grade” evolved into bishops.

Bishops fulfilled the high priestly roles exemplified by Christ: They were priests, prophets, and kings. As a priest, each bishop had the power to consecrate, offer the eucharistic sacrifice, and forgive sins. As a prophet, he had the authority to teach and to forgive sins. As a king, he had primary pastoral responsibility to guide his flock. At consecration, he received special graces to equip him for his office.

Today, the pope still decides who will be made a bishop. However, local councils of bishops are encouraged to help the pope make the decision by giving him their recommendations. Church tradition prescribes that candidates for the position of bishop should have integrity, piety, prudence and a zeal for souls. They should be trained in theology or canon law and may not marry.

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JUBILEE TEACHING

Bishops: community leaders

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