evêque

Evêque is the French term for bishop, a cleric who holds episcopal ordination and oversees a diocese or equivalent ecclesiastical jurisdiction. In many Christian traditions, notably the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Church and episcopally governed Protestant churches, bishops are responsible for teaching, sanctifying and governing the local church, and they play a key role in the ordination of priests and deacons, confirmation of the faithful, and the maintenance of doctrinal and liturgical discipline.

Etymology and usage: the word derives from Latin episcopus, itself from Greek episkopos, meaning supervisor or overseer. In French usage, évêque denotes the ordained office as well as the holder's jurisdiction, which is typically a diocese or a similar territorial unit.

Duties and authority: bishops ensure the integrity of doctrine within their diocese, preside over liturgical celebrations at key moments, provide pastoral care to clergy and laity, and administer the sacraments of Holy Orders and Confirmation. They oversee diocesan administration, finances, schools and charitable activities, and they may convene synods or councils within their territory.

Appointment and succession: in the Roman Catholic Church, bishops are appointed by the pope and are consecrated by other bishops, confirming apostolic succession. Within other traditions, the method of selection and the scope of jurisdiction vary, with roles such as archbishop, auxiliary bishop or coadjutor bishop reflecting different hierarchical and administrative structures.

Symbols and see: episcopal insignia typically include a mitre, a crozier (pastoral staff), a ring and a pectoral cross, often worn in connection with a defined episcopal see or reserve title. The office has played a significant role in religious life and, at times, in civil governance, especially in historical contexts in France.