What Is Apostolic Succession in the Orthodox Church?

Apostolic succession is the Church's continuity with the apostles through the ministry of bishops, together with continuity in apostolic faith, worship, and sacramental life.

Is it only a historical chain of ordinations? No. Orthodox Christianity understands apostolic succession as more than a list of names. A bishop is called to preserve and teach the faith received by the Church.

Why are bishops important? Bishops serve as pastors and guardians of the Church's unity and sacramental life, assisted by priests and deacons.

For more about their role, see Why Does the Orthodox Church Have Bishops?.