Coadjutor

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A coadjutor (from Latin coadiutor, meaning "assistant" or "helper") is an official position used in various contexts within the Christian Church, such as in the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, and others. A coadjutor is typically appointed to assist a bishop in his administrative, liturgical, and pastoral duties, and is often designated as the successor of the bishop.

Role and Function

In the Roman Catholic Church, a coadjutor bishop is appointed by the Pope to assist the current bishop of a diocese and has the right of succession upon the retirement, resignation, or death of the incumbent bishop. This is particularly useful in large dioceses or in situations where the bishop may be ill or otherwise incapacitated. The coadjutor bishop has the same ordination as a diocesan bishop and possesses the right to automatically succeed the current bishop.

In the Anglican Communion, the role of a coadjutor is similar, though the specific terms and conditions of their appointment and succession can vary by province. Coadjutors in the Anglican tradition may also be referred to as "assistant bishops" or "suffragan bishops," depending on their duties and responsibilities.

Canonical Implications

The appointment of a coadjutor bishop is governed by the Canon Law of the respective church. In the Roman Catholic Church, the Code of Canon Law specifies that a coadjutor bishop has the right to succeed the diocesan bishop by virtue of his appointment (canon succession). This is not an automatic process in all branches of the Anglican Communion, where local laws and practices may differ.

Notable Coadjutors

Throughout history, several notable coadjutors have risen to significant positions within the church. For example, many have gone on to become influential bishops, archbishops, or cardinals. Their role as a coadjutor often prepares them for these higher offices, providing them with valuable experience in church leadership and administration.

See Also

• Bishop
• Diocese
• Episcopal polity
• Ecclesiastical province