CCC 551

From the beginning of his public life Jesus chose certain men, twelve in number, to be with him and to participate in his mission.²⁸⁰ Cf. Mk 3:13-19. He gives the Twelve a share in his authority and 'sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal."²⁸¹ Lk 9:2[ETML:C/]. They remain associated for ever with Christ's kingdom, for through them he directs the Church:

As my Father appointed a kingdom for me, so do I appoint for you that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.²⁸² Lk 22:29-30.