Episcopacy

Episcopacy refers to a church leadership structure where authority is held by bishops, who oversee and guide local congregations and regions. This system emphasizes hierarchical order, with bishops responsible for spiritual oversight, maintaining doctrine, and administrative functions. Many denominations, such as the Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox churches, operate with episcopal governance, distinguishing them from congregational or presbyterian models. Episcopacy aims to ensure doctrinal unity, accountability, and continuity in church leadership, providing a clear line of authority from bishops to clergy and laity.