[RnMomof7]

It hinges on whether you believe in Apostolic succession or not. The lead off is that and only that. If you don’t it will never make sense, if you do, then you see it for what it is.

Indeed it does... and seeing there is no indication of "apostolic" succession"...that leaves Rome in a bind

[one Lord one faith one baptism]

No apostolic succession?

News to Paul.

Titus 1:5

Paul laid hands on Titus, who then laid hands on elders in Crete, who then laid hands on other men, etc etc.

Been happening now for close to 2,000 years.......after all, Jesus promised to be with the Church ALWAYS, even to the end of the world.