David Hope, Baron Hope of Thornes

The question of whether women should be made bishops once they had been ordained is absolutely pivotal. It seems to me absolute nonsense for women to be ordained to the priesthood but not to the episcopacy because the two are inextricably linked.

English Clergyman

Episcopacy refers specifically to a structure where bishops have authority over church matters.

Church Leadership

In an episcopacy, bishops are often part of a larger hierarchy, sometimes led by an archbishop or patriarch.

Hierarchical Order

Not all Christian denominations use an episcopacy; some have different governance structures.

Not Universal

Episcopacy also denotes the duration of an individual bishop's leadership within the church.

Individual Service

When studying history, episcopacy can indicate the influence of bishops during a specific time period.

Historical Context

Episcopacy can be used to refer to the policies or changes implemented by a bishop while in office.