1 Answer
WIKIPEDIA says:
The Catholic Church describes as its hierarchy its bishops, priests and deacons.[1][2] In the ecclesiastical sense of the term, "hierarchy" commonly means the body of persons who exercise authority within a Christian church.[3] In the Catholic Church, authority rests chiefly with the bishops,[4] while priests and deacons serve as their assistants, co-workers or helpers.[5] Accordingly, "hierarchy of the Catholic Church" is also used to refer to bishops alone.[6]
The Catholic Church comprised, as of 31 December 2011, 2,834 dioceses,[7][8] each overseen by a bishop. Dioceses are divided into individual communities called parishes, each staffed by one or more priests.[9] Priests may be assisted by deacons. All clergy, including deacons, priests, and bishops, may preach, teach, baptize, witness marriages and conduct funeral liturgies.[10] Only priests and bishops can celebrate the sacraments of the Eucharist (though others may be ministers of Holy Communion),[11] Reconciliation (Penance), Confirmation (priests may administer this sacrament with prior ecclesiastical approval), and Anointing of the Sick.[12][13] Only bishops can administer the sacrament of Holy Orders, which ordains someone into the clergy.[14]
And here is a chart:
| 12 years ago. Rating: 3 | |
Redstone2009
Bob/PKB