Lineages

[Cino]

Some faiths have what I call "lineage" or "transmission". Examples are the ordination of clergy in some Christian churches, which trace their lineage back to the blessing of St. Peter by Jesus, or Buddhist monastic ordination lineages, which likewise trace themselves back to the historical Buddha ordaining the first monks, or Sufi "golden chain" lineages, going back to the Companions.

What do you think of this custom or phenomenon? What is (or isn't) conveyed? Is legitimacy preserved even across lineage holders of questionable character?

 

[RJM]

Well in the Catholic Church it's an assurance the priest has received training into the gravitas of his role. He is required to renounce material ambition and pledge his life with solemn vows. He administers the Eucharist and the other ancient sacraments.

It takes years. He doesn't just wake up one day deciding to declare himself an independent 'pastor' and start another new church according to his own interpretation? Bad priests are liable to be defrocked; a priest may petition the Pope to be formally relieved of his vows, etc

https://www.interfaith.org/community/threads/20340/

 

[Cino]

Well in the Catholic Church it's an assurance the priest has received training into the gravitas of his role.

I think protestant seminaries have rigorous training as well?

But is it just about "quality control"?