According to Catholic teaching, Jesus gave Peter the "keys to the kingdom of heaven," making him the first leader of the early Christian community. Cardinals are appointed by the Pope and serve as his chief advisors.
Leadership Structure and Governance in the Catholic Church
The bishops, guided by the Holy Spirit, are responsible for interpreting scripture, applying doctrine to modern issues, and ensuring that the local churches remain faithful to the universal Church's mission. A bishop oversees a specific geographic area known as a diocese, acting as the chief shepherd of the faithful in that region.
Understanding who runs the Catholic Church requires looking beyond the Sunday rituals and parish life to the intricate governance structure that has guided over a billion followers for two millennia. This shared teaching authority is known as the Magisterium.
The Governing Body: Catholic Church Leadership Structure
Key Body Primary Function Roman Curia Central administrative apparatus of the Holy See College of Cardinals Advisors to the Pope and electors of a new Pope Secretariat of State Handles diplomatic relations and international affairs Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith Guardian of Catholic doctrine and theology Bishops and the Magisterium Below the papal level, the Church is governed by bishops, who serve as the successors of the Apostles. The Pope is considered the Vicar of Christ on Earth, the Supreme Pontiff, and the leader of the entire worldwide Catholic community, or the College of Bishops.
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