EPISCOPACY Meaning and
Definition
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Episcopacy refers to a form of church government where authority is vested in bishops. It is a hierarchical system where bishops hold the highest level of authority and are responsible for the oversight and administration of a religious denomination. The term "episcopacy" is derived from the Greek word "episkopos," meaning overseer or supervisor.
In an episcopal system, bishops are appointed or elected to govern individual dioceses or regions. They possess the power to ordain clergy, administer sacraments, and provide pastoral care to their congregations. The authority of bishops often extends to making decisions on matters of doctrine, discipline, and overall governance of the church.
Episcopacy is most commonly associated with certain Christian denominations such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Anglican Communion. However, other Christian traditions, such as some Methodist and Lutheran churches, also incorporate elements of episcopal polity.
One of the key features of episcopacy is the concept of apostolic succession, which asserts that bishops are the successors of the original apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. This belief emphasizes a continuity of authority and lineage from the early Christian church. Episcopacy has historical roots in the early centuries of Christianity and has evolved over time, adapting to various cultural, theological, and ecclesiastical contexts.
In summary, episcopacy is a form of church government where authority is vested in bishops who oversee and govern their respective dioceses or regions, exercising power over matters of doctrine, discipline, and governance within their denomination.
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Church government by bishops; the order of bishops in the English and other Churches.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EPISCOPACY
Etymology of EPISCOPACY
The word "Episcopacy" comes from the Greek noun "episkopḗ" (ἐπισκοπή), which means "oversight". In ancient Greek, this term referred to the act of overseeing or supervising. It is derived from the combination of two other Greek words: "epí" (ἐπί), meaning "on" or "upon", and "skopḗ" (σκοπή), which means "watching" or "looking".
The word "Episcopacy" specifically refers to the form of church government in which oversight and authority are centered around bishops. It is used to describe the government and doctrine of a particular religious denomination that is led by bishops, such as the Episcopal Church.
Similar spelling words for EPISCOPACY
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