Apostolic succession

The passing on of the apostles’ ministry and authority through successive generations of bishops.

Catholics believe that the bishops inherit the apostles’ ministry through apostolic succession, passed on through successive generations by the laying on of hands. The Pope is understood as the successor of St Peter.

The handing on of the apostles’ authority through an unbroken succession of bishops. Catholics understand the Pope as the successor of St Peter.

Explain why councils have authority for Catholics: connect the bishops’ apostolic succession, communion with the Pope and belief in guidance by the Holy Spirit.

For apostolic succession, link the apostles to their successors, the bishops, and then explain why Catholics recognise the teaching authority of the Pope and bishops.

The continuity of authority and teaching from the apostles through their successors, the bishops. Catholics regard the Pope as the successor of St Peter.

The passing on of the apostles’ ministerial authority through successive generations of bishops by ordination.

The belief that the authority and teaching of the apostles have been passed on through successive generations of bishops.

The continuity of ordained ministry from the apostles through successive generations of bishops.

Definition

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AQA GCSE Religious Studies B · 8063

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Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies A · 1RA0