Auxiliary bishop

Auxiliary Bishop

An auxiliary bishop is a bishop assigned to assist the diocesan bishop in meeting the pastoral and administrative needs of the diocese. Auxiliary bishops are appointed in dioceses that are too large for the diocesan bishop to manage alone or where the diocesan bishop requires additional support due to other responsibilities or health issues.

Role and Responsibilities

Auxiliary bishops are appointed by the Pope and serve under the authority of the diocesan bishop. Their primary role is to assist the diocesan bishop in the pastoral care of the diocese. This can include:

• Celebrating sacraments such as confirmation and ordination.
• Overseeing specific regions or aspects of diocesan life, such as education, health care, or social services.
• Representing the diocesan bishop at events and meetings.
• Assisting in administrative duties and decision-making processes.

Auxiliary bishops do not have the right of succession, meaning they do not automatically become the diocesan bishop if the current bishop retires or is transferred.

Appointment Process

The process of appointing an auxiliary bishop involves several steps:

1. The diocesan bishop submits a request to the Holy See for an auxiliary bishop, explaining the need for additional episcopal assistance.
2. The Congregation for Bishops reviews the request and, if approved, compiles a list of potential candidates.
3. The Pope makes the final decision and appoints the auxiliary bishop.

Once appointed, the auxiliary bishop is consecrated in a ceremony that involves the laying on of hands by other bishops, signifying the transmission of the apostolic succession.

Historical Context

The role of auxiliary bishops has evolved over time. In the early Church, bishops were primarily responsible for the spiritual and administrative needs of their local communities. As the Church grew, the need for additional episcopal support became apparent, leading to the development of the auxiliary bishop role.

Differences from Coadjutor Bishops

It is important to distinguish between auxiliary bishops and coadjutor bishops. While both assist the diocesan bishop, a coadjutor bishop has the right of succession, meaning they will automatically become the diocesan bishop upon the current bishop's retirement or transfer.

Notable Auxiliary Bishops

Throughout history, many auxiliary bishops have gone on to become prominent leaders within the Church. Some have been appointed as diocesan bishops, cardinals, or even popes.

See Also

• Bishop
• Diocese
• Episcopal polity
• Coadjutor bishop

References

• "Code of Canon Law," Vatican.va.
• "The Role of Auxiliary Bishops," Catholic Encyclopedia.