The bishops, who possess the fullness of orders, and therefore the fullness of both priesthood and diaconate, are as a body (the College of Bishops) considered the successors of the Apostles and are "constituted … See more

Local ordinaries are placed over or exercise ordinary executive power in particular churches or equivalent communities. See more

Deacons are ordained ministers of the Church who are co-workers with the bishop alongside presbyters, but are intended to focus on the ministries of direct service and outreach to the poor and needy, rather than pastoral leadership. They are usually … See more

Religious—who can be either lay people or clergy—are members of religious institutes, societies in which the members take public vows and live a fraternal life in common. This is a form of consecrated life distinct from other forms, such as that of secular institutes. … See more

In general
Bishops are assisted by priests and deacons. All priests and deacons are incardinated in a diocese or religious order. Parishes, … See more

Most Catholics are laity, a term derived from Greek λαὸς Θεοῦ (Laos Theou), meaning "people of God". All Christian faithful have the right and duty to bring the gospel message increasingly to "all people in every age and every land". They all have a share in the … See more

• Anglican ministry
• Apostolic Syndic
• Catholic Church by country
• Global organisation of the Catholic Church See more