<Tr> <Td> <Ul> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> </Ul> </Td> </Tr> <Ul> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> <Li> </Li> </Ul> <P> The hierarchy of the Catholic Church consists of its bishops, priests, and deacons . In the ecclesiological sense of the term, "hierarchy" strictly means the "holy ordering" of the Church, the Body of Christ, so to respect the diversity of gifts and ministries necessary for genuine unity . (1 Cor 12) </P> <P> In canonical and general usage, it refers to those who exercise authority within a Christian church . In the Catholic Church, authority rests chiefly with the bishops, while priests and deacons serve as their assistants, co-workers or helpers . Accordingly, "hierarchy of the Catholic Church" is also used to refer to the bishops alone . </P>

What is the hierarchy in the roman catholic church