VICAR APOSTOLIC Meaning and
Definition
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A vicar apostolic refers to a high-ranking Catholic prelate who holds authority over a particular territory or mission outside the normal structure of dioceses. Derived from the Latin term "vicarius apostolicus," it represents an individual appointed by the Pope to serve as a representative of the Holy See in regions where the Catholic Church is not yet well-established or is facing specific challenges. The title primarily emerged during times when missionaries were sent to evangelize distant lands or areas with limited access to regular pastoral care.
As a vicar apostolic, the prelate is entrusted with the spiritual and administrative responsibility of overseeing the ecclesiastical affairs and general well-being of the Catholic community within their designated territory. Although similar to a diocesan bishop, a vicar apostolic does not have full authority over a diocese. Instead, they act as the Pope's representative and are often subject to the supervision of a nearby diocesan bishop or an archbishop.
The appointment of a vicar apostolic signifies the importance the Catholic Church places on the evangelization and pastoral care in territories or regions that are not yet considered independent dioceses. Vicars apostolic are typically assigned to areas with a significant number of non-Catholic inhabitants or where the Church is in its nascent stages. They play a vital role in coordinating mission work, establishing parishes, training local clergy, and spreading the teachings of Catholicism.
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In the R. Cath. Ch., a missionary priest or bishop having powers direct from the Pope.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for VICAR APOSTOLIC
- cicar apostolic
- bicar apostolic
- gicar apostolic
- ficar apostolic
- vucar apostolic
- vjcar apostolic
- vkcar apostolic
- vocar apostolic
- v9car apostolic
- v8car apostolic
- vixar apostolic
- vivar apostolic
- vifar apostolic
- vidar apostolic
- viczr apostolic
- vicsr apostolic
- vicwr apostolic
- vicqr apostolic
- vicae apostolic
Etymology of VICAR APOSTOLIC
The term "vicar apostolic" has its roots in the Latin language. "Vicar" originates from the Latin word "vicarius", which means "substitute" or "deputy". In the context of the Catholic Church, a vicar often refers to a representative or deputy of a higher authority.
The word "apostolic" comes from the Latin word "apostolicus", which is derived from the Greek word "apostolikos". It relates to the concept of being "sent forth" or "commissioned", as an apostle in Christianity is one who is sent to spread the faith.
Therefore, when combined, "vicar apostolic" refers to an individual who acts as a representative or deputy of a higher ecclesiastical authority and possesses apostolic authority.
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