Editing Catharism (section)

=== Hierarchy ===
It has been alleged that the Cathar Church of the Languedoc had a relatively [[Flat organization|flat structure]], distinguishing between the baptised {{lang|la|Perfecti}} (a term they did not use; instead, {{lang|fr|bonhommes}}) and ordinary unbaptised believers ({{lang|la|credentes}}).{{sfn|Johnston|Renkin|2000|p=252}} By about 1140, liturgy and a system of doctrine had been established.{{sfnp|Sumption|1999|pp=49–50}} They created a number of [[Episcopal see|bishoprics]], first at [[Albi]] around 1165{{sfnp|O'Shea|2000|pp=2–4}} and after the 1167 Council at [[Saint-Félix-Lauragais]] sites at [[Toulouse]], [[Carcassonne]], and [[Agen]], so that four bishoprics were in existence by 1200.{{sfn|Johnston|Renkin|2000|p=252}}{{sfnp|Sumption|1999|pp=49–50}}{{sfnp|Lambert|1998|p=70}}{{sfnp|Lambert|2002|p=140}}

In about 1225, during a lull in the [[Albigensian Crusade]], the bishopric of [[Razès]] was added. Bishops were supported by their two assistants: a {{lang|la|filius maior}} (typically the successor) and a {{lang|la|filius minor}}, who were further assisted by deacons.{{sfnp|Moore|1995|p=137}} The {{lang|la|Perfecti}} were the spiritual elite, highly respected by many of the local people, leading a life of austerity and charity.{{sfn|Johnston|Renkin|2000|p=252}} In the apostolic fashion, they ministered to the people and travelled in pairs.{{sfn|Johnston|Renkin|2000|p=252}}