[wmfights]

Hmmm....you've referred us to this post as to what is in scripture about ordination.

Always find your input valuable. :-)

Tts 1:5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: (KJV)

Also, the laying on of hands (ordaining leaders) was after the selection had been made,by the congregation. The point being, the Apostles did not hand pick the leaders of the churches they helped start. They were missionaries. Thus the claim of a special status (Apostolic Succession) of church leadership rests in the "laying on of hands" and the question really is why would the laying on of hands by RC's and EO be any different than that done by other Christian sects?

[Kolokotronis]

"...and the question really is why would the laying on of hands by RC's and EO be any different than that done by other Christian sects?"

Because you people left The Church and your leaders have no valid ordinations? Just a thought.

[annalex]

the laying on of hands (ordaining leaders) was after the selection had been made,by the congregation

Even if accurate, that statement does not change anything. Today, for example, a future priest goes to seminary, and goes through a long discernment process. He may or may not end up an ordained priest. It is entirely possible that one element of the discernment in the Ancient Church was election by the congregation; this does not alter the fact that sacramental ordination was necessary. Note that St. Paul does not say anything about election, but repeats many times the imposition of hands, ordination, or appointment.

Of course, communion with the apostolic Church is neccessary before any laying-of-hands ritual produces a valid priest.