What is episcopy?

Episcopy, derived from the Greek word episkopos meaning "overseer" or "bishop," refers to a system of church governance where bishops hold a central role. Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

• Role of Bishops: Bishops in episcopal systems are understood to hold a unique office derived from apostolic succession. They are believed to be successors to the original Apostles and carry the authority to ordain clergy, confirm members, and oversee the administration of their dioceses.

• Hierarchical Structure: Episcopal churches typically have a hierarchical structure, with bishops at the top, followed by priests or presbyters, and then deacons. The bishop's authority extends over the clergy and congregations within their diocese, a defined geographical area.

• Apostolic Succession: A core belief is the unbroken chain of ordinations from the Apostles to the present-day bishops. This succession is seen as essential for the valid transmission of spiritual authority and the sacraments.

• Examples of Episcopal Churches: Prominent examples of churches with episcopal governance include the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Churches, the Anglican Communion (including the Episcopal Church in the United States), and some Lutheran churches (particularly in Scandinavia).

• Variations: While all episcopal churches share the basic principles, there are variations in the degree of authority held by bishops, the specific rites of ordination, and the relationship between bishops and other church bodies. Some churches may have archbishops or metropolitans who oversee a group of dioceses.