MR 5.E Apostles and Magisterium

As visible assembly of the faithful on earth, Christ established the church with a visible structure and hierarchy. By selecting the twelve apostles, Jesus set upon the stones of the church that will help make a better foundation. Though they were not able to live on through their physical body, the apostles were able to endure their office through their successors, being the Pope. Throughout the centuries, the bishops in Union with the pope have faithfully governed the church, transmitted the gospel to each generation, and celebrated the sacraments instituted by Christ.