An Auxiliary Bishop is a bishop appointed to assist the diocesan bishop (also called the Ordinary) in the pastoral care and administration of a diocese. While possessing the fullness of Holy Orders through episcopal consecration, the Auxiliary does not possess ordinary jurisdiction over the diocese in the same manner as the diocesan bishop.
Canonically, an Auxiliary Bishop is assigned a titular see—a historical diocese that no longer exists as a territorial entity—signifying that while he possesses episcopal character, he is not the primary shepherd of the diocese in which he serves. This arrangement dates back to ancient Church practice and is codified in the 1983 Code of Canon Law (cc. 403-411).
The Responsibilities of An Auxiliary Bishop
The Auxiliary typically oversees specific aspects of diocesan life as delegated by the Ordinary, such as confirming the faithful, ordaining deacons, consecrating churches, and administering other episcopal functions. In larger dioceses, multiple Auxiliaries may be appointed, each perhaps focusing on distinct regions or ministerial areas.
Unlike a Coadjutor Bishop, who has the right of succession when the diocesan see becomes vacant, an Auxiliary Bishop does not automatically succeed the Ordinary. When a diocesan bishop retires, resigns, or passes away, the Auxiliary continues in his role until the new Ordinary determines otherwise or the Holy See provides different instructions.
Collaborative Ministry
The relationship between the diocesan bishop and his Auxiliaries is meant to reflect the collegial nature of the episcopate. Together, they form a presbyterium that collaboratively shepherds the local Church, embodying the unity and apostolicity that are hallmarks of Catholic ecclesiology. As the Second Vatican Council emphasized, bishops are not to be viewed as vicars of the Pope, but as vicars of Christ, acting in their own right as authentic teachers, priests, and pastors.
