What was addressed regarding the role of bishops at the Council of Trent?

The Council of Trent, held between 1545 and 1563, was a pivotal moment in the Catholic Reformation that sought to address various issues within the Church, including the role of bishops. The correct choice highlights the council's focus on the reform of the clergy and the enhanced authority of bishops in governing local churches. During the council, there was a recognition of the need for bishops to have a more active and effective governance role within their dioceses. This included directives to improve the moral and educational standards of the clergy, as well as ensuring that bishops were properly overseeing the spiritual welfare of their communities.

The council issued decrees that emphasized the importance of bishops residing in their dioceses, conducting regular visitations, and ensuring that the sacraments were administered properly. Furthermore, this aspect of the council sought to restore the integrity and authority of the episcopate, addressing issues brought on by the Protestant Reformation and clerical abuses that had led to a decline in public trust and doctrinal confusion.

The other options do not fully encapsulate the breadth of the council's discussions on the episcopacy. While theological education for bishops is important, it is a narrower topic compared to the overarching theme of governance. The notion of papal appointment