Final answer:
Deacons are ordained to assist priests and bishops. In cases where bishops cannot fulfill their duties, they may appoint coadjutors with general administrative authority. During emergencies, laypersons can perform certain religious duties, emphasizing the universal priesthood of all believers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individuals ordained to assist the priest and the bishop are known as deacons. Deacons are ordained ministers who serve the Church and are often involved in liturgical duties, charity, and pastoral outreach. In cases where a bishop is aging or suffering from illness and cannot perform his duties adequately, he may assume coadjutors by apostolic authority to help him in his office. Coadjutors have general administrative powers and can be appointed even against the will of the incumbent officeholder if necessary.
Moreover, in emergencies where no consecrated priests are available, laypersons can perform certain religious functions such as baptism and absolution, drawing from the principle that all baptized Christians share in the priesthood, a concept supported by biblical references such as 'Ye are a royal priesthood' (I Pet. ii. 9) and 'hast made us unto our God kings and priests' (Rev. v. 10).
Roles of Deacons and Coadjutors
Deacons are usually involved in service at the altar during Mass, charitable works, and other activities as needed by the bishop. By contrast, coadjutors are given to bishops or archdeacons when they are incapacitated due to illness, age, or other acceptable reasons and are responsible for providing continuity in church operations and governance.