Epistle to the Philadelphians (Long Version)

Since, according to your prayers and the compassion you feel in Christ Jesus, it has been reported to me that the Church in Antioch, Syria, has peace, it is fitting for you, as a Church of God, to choose a bishop to serve as God's ambassador for you to the brethren there, so that they may be allowed to gather together and glorify the name of God. Blessed is the one in Christ Jesus who is deemed worthy of such a ministry; and if you are zealous in this matter, you shall receive glory in Christ. If you are willing, it is not beyond your power to do this for the sake of God, just as the nearest Churches have also sent, in some cases, bishops, and in others, presbyters and deacons.