Why the Book of the Gospels Is Held Open Above the Head of a Newly Ordained Bishop?

 By Komujuni Faith

In the Catholic Church, the ordination of a bishop is marked by rich and profound symbols that express the nature of his ministry and responsibility. One of the most striking moments in the rite of episcopal ordination is when the Book of the Gospels is held open above the head of the bishop-elect during the Prayer of Ordination. This gesture is not merely ceremonial; it carries deep theological and pastoral meaning about the identity, authority, and mission of a bishop in the Church.

First and foremost, holding the open Book of the Gospels above the bishop’s head signifies his total submission to the Word of God. From the moment of his ordination, the bishop is placed under the authority of the Gospel. This act makes it clear that the bishop does not govern or teach according to personal ideas or human wisdom, but according to the message of Christ as revealed in Scripture. The Gospel stands above him, reminding both the bishop and the faithful that God’s Word is supreme and must guide every aspect of his ministry.

Secondly, the ritual emphasizes the bishop’s role as the chief teacher of the faith in his diocese. A bishop is entrusted with the responsibility of proclaiming, explaining, and defending the Gospel. The open book symbolizes readiness and openness to preach the Good News faithfully and without distortion. It expresses the expectation that the bishop will be a living witness of the Gospel, teaching not only with words but also through his life, actions, and pastoral decisions.

Furthermore, this gesture highlights the bishop’s place within apostolic succession. The apostles were commissioned by Christ to preach the Gospel to all nations, and bishops are their successors. By holding the Gospel over the bishop-elect, the Church visibly expresses the continuity of this mission across generations. The same Gospel preached by the apostles is now entrusted to the new bishop, ensuring that the faith of the Church remains rooted in Christ’s original message.

The symbolism also reflects the biblical idea of being “overshadowed” by God’s presence. Just as the power of God overshadowed key figures in Scripture, the Gospel placed above the bishop’s head suggests that his ministry is covered and guided by God’s Word. It is a sign of protection, responsibility, and divine guidance, indicating that the bishop’s leadership must remain aligned with God’s will as revealed in the Gospel.

Finally, for the gathered faithful, this act serves as a powerful public witness. It teaches that the bishop’s authority does not place him above Scripture, but under it. His leadership is a service rooted in obedience to Christ and dedication to the Gospel. The community is reminded that their shepherd is called to lead not by domination, but by fidelity to God’s Word.

In conclusion, the holding of the open Book of the Gospels above the head of a newly ordained bishop is a deeply meaningful gesture that expresses the heart of episcopal ministry. It proclaims that the bishop lives under the authority of the Gospel, is charged with faithfully proclaiming it, continues the mission of the apostles, and leads the Church in humble obedience to the Word of God. Through this powerful symbol, the Church affirms that the Gospel remains the foundation and guiding light of all episcopal service.