Bishop

An English ecclesiastical dignitary, being the chief of the clergy within his diocese, subject to the archbishop of the provinces in which his diocese is situated, Most of thie bishops are also members of the house of lords. A bishop bas three powers: (1) A power of ordination, gained on his consecration, by which he confers orders, cte., in uny place throughout the world; (2) a power of jurisdiction throughout his see or his bishopric: (3) a power of administration and government of the revenues thereof, gained on confirmation. He has, also, a consistory court, to hear ecclesiastical causes, and visits and super intends the clergy of his diocese. He consecrates churches and institutes priests, confirms, suspends, excommunicates, and grants licenses for marriages. He has his archdeacon, dean, and chapter, chancellor, who holds his courts and assists him in matters of ecclesiastical law, and viear-genera), He grants leases for three lives, or twenty-one years, reserving the accustomed yearly rent.

Wharton.