What is a bishop?
Q: What is a bishop?
A: A bishop is a type of clergy in some Christian churches. They are the leader of the Christians and Christian priests in each diocese, and they have an episcopal throne in the main church of the diocese (called a cathedral).
Q: Are bishops found in all denominations?
A: No, some Protestant denominations do not have bishops or archbishops. An example is Presbyterianism, which has a leader called the Moderator who is elected by the General Assembly each year. Other Christian movements such as Quakers also do not have bishops or priests.
Q: How does one become pope?
A: According to church law, any male, unmarried, baptized Christian who is judged fit for the office can become pope. However, since 1378 all popes have been bishops. The pope is also known as 'the Bishop of Rome', and he rules an independent state within Rome called Vatican City.
Q: Who governs bishops in Anglican churches?
A: Bishops in Anglican churches are governed by Archbishops.
Q: What item of clothing identifies a bishop?
A: A bishop can usually be identified by their special hat called a mitre.
Q: Do all Roman Catholic bishops answer to the Pope?
A: Yes, all Roman Catholic bishops answer to either the Pope or patriarchs in some Orthodox churches.
