Hierarchy

 BASIC R.C.BELIEF

Roman Catholics define this term as signifying sacred government. They admit that those participating in this government could do so by virtue of ordination.

POST VATICAN II

In FUNDAMENTALISM (page 18), Anthony Gilles states, "Out of this picture of early Church life certain undisputed historic facts emerge. By the early second century the Church was forming its episcopal character. And by the early third century it was definitely fixed as an episcopal Church, that is, a Church led by bishops."

While still remaining her hierarchical structure, the Church now places more emphasis on the important role of each lay member.

CHRISTIAN COMMENT

By actual word structure, the word means "rule by priests." In Mark 10:42- 43 Jesus made it plain that His Church was not to be governed by rulers that exercise lordship over people as in heathen governments (see also 1 Peter 5:3).

During the ministry of Irenaeus, the monarchical bishop (a bishop who rules) was created in order to fight heresy. This was the beginning of the Hierarchy.