apostolate

Noun

a=pos=to=late

CIDE DICTIONARY

apostolate, n. [L. apostolatus, fr. apostolus. See Apostle.].

The dignity, office, or mission, of an apostle; apostleship. [1913 Webster]
"Judas had miscarried and lost his apostolate." [1913 Webster]
The dignity or office of the pope, as the holder of the apostolic see. [1913 Webster]

apostolate, n.
1 the position or authority of an Apostle.
2 leadership in reform.

Etymology

eccl.L apostolatus (as APOSTLE)