[wmfights]

It is a historical, not a scriptural fact;

Thank you!

You are the first RC to admit your theory of Apostolic Succession is matter of history and not Scripture. I appreciate your honesty.

At least well into the 2nd century churches picked their leaders. The criteria for that selection process is laid out in Scripture. Why would your sect think that because you have a long history your selection has anymore weight than the sects that operated outside of your control prior to, or after, the Reformation.

[annalex]

The exact manner of ordination and consecration is not in the scripture, just like the exact manner of baptism and the Eucharist is nto in the scripture. See, however, 4727 just above for what is in the scripture, as well as

As the Father hath sent me, I also send you

(John 20:21)

be ye followers of me, as I also am of Christ

(1 Cor 4:16)

how shall they preach unless they be sent

(Romans 10:15)

[kawaii]

As Kolo pointed out, there were Bishops called as such during the lifetimes of the apostles.