Why Do Catholics Do That?

Why do we say the Church is "Apostolic?"
                             
                              The Church was founded on the Apostles, sent by Christ to "make disciples of all nations...........teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthews 28:19-20).  The Apostles conferred their mission and authority on their successors with the imposition of hands, still done today.
                             The faith of the Apostles was preserved through time via this apostolic succession."  [The Church] continues to be taught, sanctified, and guided by the Apostles until Christ's return, through their successors in pastoral office"  (CCC857).