Apostolic (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Of or relating to or deriving from the Apostles or their teachings.
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The apostolic tradition of passing down the teachings of the Apostles through generations has been an important part of the Church's heritage.
- The Pope is considered to be the successor to the apostolic throne of Saint Peter, one of Jesus' twelve Apostles.
- The apostolic doctrine of the Trinity is a central tenet of Christian theology, and has been a topic of discussion among theologians for centuries.
- Many Christians consider the apostolic era, which spanned the lifetime of the Apostles, to be a unique and pivotal period in the history of the Church.
- The apostolic writings of Saint Paul, such as the letters to the Corinthians and the Romans, are still studied and revered by Christians today.
Synonyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Proceeding from or ordered by or subject to a pope or the papacy regarded as the successor of the Apostles; "papal dispensation".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The apostolic nuncio, the Pope's official representative, arrived in the capital city to facilitate negotiations between the government and the Catholic Church.
- In Catholic theology, the apostolic succession of bishops is seen as a crucial link between the apostles of Jesus and the current leadership of the Church.
- The apostolic prefecture is a type of Catholic administrative region that is under the direct supervision of the Pope.
- According to tradition, the apostolic exhortation, written by Pope Paul VI in 1968, encouraged priests and laity to pursue lives of celibacy and self-discipline.
- As an apostolic delegate, the bishop had been sent by the Pope to mediate disputes and settle administrative matters in distant dioceses.