prelatism

/ˈprɛləˌtɪzəm/
noun
  1. The system or principles of church government by prelates; support for a hierarchical episcopal structure.
    • The debate over prelatism divided the church for generations.
    • His writings defended prelatism as the traditional form of church governance.
    • The Puritans strongly opposed prelatism and favored a more democratic church structure.
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