What does the Doctrine of Petrine Succession say?

The Doctrine of Petrine Succession is the belief that the authority of the Pope, as the Bishop of Rome, is derived from Saint Peter, whom Catholics consider the first Pope. This doctrine asserts that Peter was appointed by Christ to be the leader of his followers, and that this leadership role has been passed down through an unbroken line of successors. It emphasizes the Pope's spiritual authority and role as a unifying figure within the Catholic Church. This concept is foundational to the Catholic understanding of ecclesiastical hierarchy and governance.