Prophets and Hierarchs "Prophets and Hierarchs" aims at providing a sound understanding of the trials and tribulations of Christianity since the days of Jesus of Nazareth. It deals with its institutionalization and its consequences, points to the ever-present contrast between prophetism and "sacred" power, examines how it faced the "Signs of the Times," and discusses the circumstances which led to its splintering into hundreds of different confessions.