The Church Officials
History: KS3, topic 1.5.2
The Church Officials
The Church hierarchy included the Pope, cardinals, archbishops, bishops and priests.
Pope
- The Pope was the supreme leader of the Christian Church.
- The Pope was based in Rome.
- The Pope had the highest authority in matters of faith and church governance.
- The Pope was seen as Christ’s representative on Earth.
Cardinals
- Cardinals were senior church officials who advised the Pope and helped him make important decisions.
- Cardinals often managed important regions of the Church.
Archbishops
- Archbishops were responsible for larger regions called archdioceses.
- Archbishops oversaw bishops in their area and managed important churches
Bishops
- Bishops managed smaller regions called dioceses.
- Bishops were in charge of the local churches and clergy within their dioceses.
Priests
- Priests were responsible for individual churches.
- Priests led services, provided sacraments, and offered pastoral care to the local community.
Test yourself on The Church Officials
Who were the senior church officials that advised the Pope?
In which city was the Pope based?