From Apostles to Bishops: The Development of the Episcopacy in the Early Church - Hardcover

Sullivan, Francis A.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0809105349 ISBN 13: 9780809105342

Publisher: The Newman Press, 2001

Synopsis

In this book distinguished theologian, teacher and writer Francis Sullivan examines the origins and development of the episcopacy in the early church. One of the issues he concentrates on in particular is the church-dividing character of the question whether bishops are the successors of the apostles by divine institution, with the consequence that valid ministry depends on ordination by bishops in the historical apostolic succession.

Ecumenical dialogues have produced no agreement on this matter. On the one hand Catholics, Orthodox and most Anglicans teach that episcopal ordination in the apostolic succession is necessary for valid orders and ministry. But Protestants insist that there is no evidence in the New Testament for a divine institution of the episcopate.

Using primary sources, Sullivan explores evidence for the development of the episcopate, first in the New Testament, then in Christian writings up to the middle of the third century. His thought-provoking work will be welcomed by professional theologians and serious students of theology, for whom it will prove to be an important resource for further ecclesiological study.

About this title

About the Author:

Francis A. Sullivan, S.J., is professor emeritus of the faculty of theology at the Gregorian University in Rome, where he also earned an S.T.D. degree. He now teaches ecclesiology at Boston College. His other books for Paulist Press™ are Magisterium, The Church We Believe In and Creative Fidelity.

Review:

A welcome contribution to both the historical study of the ministry and the current ecumenical movement. -- Catholic Studies

Catholics and Protestants will appreciate having so much information on this much-debated topic readily available. -- Joseph T. Lienhard, S.J. Professor of Theology Fordham University

Ecumenists and bishops will be enlightened and challenged by this book, as the author grapples with this 'church-dividing' issue. -- Agnes Cunningham, SSCM

This book should become a source-book for ecumenists as they wrestle with issues dividing Protestants from Catholics and Orthodox. -- Jared Wicks, S.J. Member, Lutheran/Roman Catholic International Commission on Unity

This is a precious and timely contribution to ecumenical dialogue. -- Gerald O'Collins, S.J. Professor of Systematic and Fundamental Theology Gregorian University, Rome

About this edition

• Publisher: The Newman Press
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0809105349
• ISBN 13: 9780809105342
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 272