How are bishops appointed in canon law?

• A. By popular election among clergy.
• B. By local diocesan council vote.
• C. By the Pope after consultation with Holy See approval.
• D. By appointment of national conference of bishops.

Answer: (C)

In canon law, the appointment of a bishop is a papal prerogative. The Pope acts after thorough consultation with the Holy See’s proper offices (and typically with input from the apostolic nuncio and, where appropriate, the bishops’ conference). This process preserves unity and safeguards doctrinal and pastoral suitability for the diocese, with the Pope ultimately issuing the appointment and the bishop-elect then being ordained and installed. The other options describe democratic or local voting methods that canon law does not authorize for choosing bishops, since final appointment rests with the Pope after consultation.