Liturgy Lines: Episcopal Ordination

The word ‘bishop’ comes form the Greek episkopos, which means overseer; so ‘episcopal’ designates things of the bishop. Bishops are successors of the Apostles. The Order of Bishops, gathered under the one head, the Pope, expresses the unity, diversity and universality of the flock of Christ. Episcopal Ordination constitutes one as a member of the body of Bishops.
The gift of the Holy Spirit for the office of Bishop is conferred on the Bishop-elect through the laying on of hands by the Bishops and the Prayer of Ordination:

“Pour out now upon this chosen one that power which is from you, the Spirit of governance whom you gave to your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, the Spirit whom he bestowed upon the holy Apostles who established the Church in each place as your sanctuary for the glory and unceasing praise of your name.”

The placing of the Book of the Gospels over the head of the Bishop-elect and the presentation of it to him illustrate that the preaching of the word of God is the pre-eminent obligation of the office of the Bishop. The anointing of the head is the sign of the Bishop’s distinctive share in the priesthood of Christ. The presentation of the ring symbolizes the Bishop’s fidelity to the Bride of God, the Church. The investiture with the miter signifies his resolve to pursue holiness. The presentation of the pastoral staff signifies the duty of guiding and governing the Church entrusted to him.

From Ordination of a Bishop in Rites of Ordination

The Diocese of Shreveport will celebrate its first Episcopal Ordination on May 19, 2008 when Msgr. Michael Gerard Duca is ordained Second Bishop of Shreveport.

Dianne Rachal
Office of Worship

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