Tradition tells us that Clement was Bishop of Rome as the third successor of Peter after Linus and Anacletus. Saint Irenaeus of Lyons spoke of how close Clement was with the Apostles. He could hear their voices echo in his heart as he preached the gospel. Clement focused on bringing clarity to apostolic succession.

Apostolic succession begins with God the Father, who sends his Son. His Son commissions the Apostles. Apostolic succession has to do with preserving the Body of the Church. We are members of one another. Our foundation is unity in Christ, who unites us in the Holy Spirit and the Father. At the heart of the matter is the mystery of the Trinity. Our lives flow from this communion of love.

Furthermore, Apostolic Succession confirms doctrines in the Church as valid. This validity is essential because God desires us to be part of the mission and grafted into the mystery of Christ.

This Bishop of Rome, Clement, used his letters to govern the Church of Rome in charity. He governed on matters that were indicative of salvation and important for the moral commitment of disciples. His leadership was crucial in guiding the Church.

Today, we must look to the visible unity of the Church under the leadership of the Bishop of Rome. In union with him, we are not only strengthened at the liturgy but also united for the mission of the world, a testament to the strength and solidarity of our faith community.