Apostolic Succession
Apostolic Succession is the belief that the authority of the Apostles, the original followers of Jesus Christ, has been passed down through generations of church leaders. This means that bishops today can trace their spiritual lineage back to the Apostles, ensuring that the teachings and practices of the Christian Church remain consistent and authentic.
This concept is important for many Christian denominations, particularly in the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. It emphasizes the continuity of leadership and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the faith, as each bishop is seen as a successor to the original Apostles, entrusted with guiding the church.