A term that literally means "bridge-builder." It refers to the Bishop of Rome, or pope.

The term is a translation of the Latin "sancta sedes" which literally means "holy seat." The word see refers to a diocese or seat of a bishop.

From the Latin "ekklesia" which means "to call out of" is also recognized by its four traits.

A grouping of two or more dioceses with an archbishop as its head.

A gift of the Holy Spirit whereby the pope and the bishops are preserved from error when proclaiming a doctrine related to Christian Faith or morals.

The living transmission of the Church's Gospel message found in the Church's teaching, life, and worship. It is faithfully preserved, handed on, and interpreted by the Church's Magisterium.

"The heritage of faith contained in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, handed down in the Church from the time of the Apostles."

Central truths of the Catholic faith, defined by the Magisterium, that Catholics are obliged to believe.

A title for the Pope, identifying his role as Christ's human representative on earth.

An open letter by the bishop to the priests and people of his diocese offering instruction, advice, or directions for behavior regarding a special circumstance.

All bishops of the Church with the pope as their head. This college together, but never without the pope, has supreme and full authority over the universal Church.

The general term means "one who is sent". Any missionary of the Church during the New Testament time period.

The line of authority in the church; more narrowly, the Pope and the bishops as successors of the Apostles, in their authoritative roles as leaders of the Church.

The understanding that every individual statement of belief must be viewed in the context of the entire body of Faith.