“The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything and remind you of all that [I] told you.” (John 14:26)
“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that one who belongs to God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”(2 Tim 3:16-17 NABRE)
Pope – The Bishop of Rome, successor of St. Peter. – Head of the universal Church. – Holds supreme authority over all other members of the hierarchy.
Bishops – Includes: Cardinals and Archbishops – possess the fullness of the Sacrament of Holy Orders – Each bishop governs a diocese-
Priests – Ordained to preach, celebrate the sacraments, and shepherd the faithful. – They assist the bishop and usually serve in parishes.
Deacons – Ordained for service (diakonia), not for priesthood. – Can preach, baptize, witness marriages, and perform funerals. – Cannot consecrate the Eucharist or hear confessions.
Laity – All baptized members of the Church not in Holy Orders or vowed religious life. – Called to sanctify the world through their vocations (marriage, work, family, service).
Topics on this page were written or edited by Ivo Corazza, MS Div. and DeLisle Callender, MA Religious Studies