"A bishop is a sign of Christ's presence in the world, going out to meet men and women where they are."
- Pope John Paul II, Rise Let Us Be On Our Way, p. 157

"Everyone had direct access to me at all times.  All were welcome to my home."
- Pope John Paul II, on his time as Archbishop of Krakaw, Rise Let Us Be On Our Way, p. 131

"Let that be considered a valid Eucharist, which is celebrated by the Bishop or by one whom he appoints. Wherever the bishop appears let the congregation be present; just as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church."
- St. Ignatius of Antioch, (written between 98 and 110 AD)

"Likewise let all respect the deacons as Jesus Christ, even as the bishop is also a type of the Father, and the presbyters (priests) as the council of God and the college of the Apostles. Without these the name of Church is not given."
- St. Ignatius of Antioch, (written between 98 and 110 AD)

"…it is a matter of necessity that every church should agree with this Church, on account of its preeminent authority that is to say, the faithful of all places, because in it the Apostolic Tradition has been always preserved …
- St Irenaeus of Lyons (130-202 AD) on the Church at Rome