Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to the Pope or the papacy: Describing something that originates from, is authorized by, or is connected to the Pope, who is regarded as the successor of the Apostles.
   • Relating to the Apostles or their teachings: Pertaining to the original twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ or the doctrines and practices derived from them.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The bishop received an apostolic blessing directly from the Pope.
  • The church follows the apostolic tradition passed down from the first disciples.
  • An apostolic letter was issued to clarify the doctrine.

Advanced Usage

• "Apostolic succession": The doctrine in Christianity that the spiritual authority conferred by Jesus on the Apostles has been handed down through an unbroken line of bishops.
  • The validity of the sacrament is tied to the concept of apostolic succession.
• "Apostolic father": Any of the early Christian theologians who were taught directly by the Apostles or their immediate followers.
  • The writings of the apostolic fathers are crucial for understanding early church history.

Variants and Related Words

• Apostolical (adj): An alternative, less common form of 'apostolic'.
  • The apostolical tradition is deeply respected.
• Apostolate (n): The position, authority, or work of an apostle.
  • He dedicated his life to his apostolate among the poor.

Synonyms

• Papal: Of or relating to the Pope.
• Pontifical: Relating to the Pope; papal.

Related Phrases

• Apostolic See: A term for the episcopal see of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope).
  • The decree was promulgated by the Apostolic See.
• Apostolic delegate: A representative of the Pope in a country that does not have formal diplomatic relations with the Holy See.
  • The apostolic delegate served as a liaison.

Adjective

1. proceeding from or ordered by or subject to a pope or the papacy regarded as the successor of the Apostles
   • papal dispensation
2. of or relating to or deriving from the Apostles or their teachings