The Roman Catholic Religion was NOT founded by Jesus Christ. JESUS AND THE EARLY ECCLESIA. www.Larkins.org. 1st-2nd Century AD: Loose Networks of Believers. LATER CENTURIES: IMPERIAL INSTITUTION. Equality of Presbyters/Elders (Plural Leadership). Decentralized 'House Churches'. No Singular Monarchical Bishop in Rome (1st Clement, Shepherd of Hermas