How to Summarize Papal Infallibility

Papal infallibility is the most controversial and least-understood of all Catholic doctrines.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Know that in 1870 Pope Pius IX proclaimed the doctrine of papal infallibility at the First Vatican Council. The doctrine states that when the pope speaks on matters of faith and morals, and casts his words according to a certain formula, he is infallible and free from error. This does not mean he is always right about everything or that he is free from sin.
2. Be aware that certain conditions must exist for the Pope to speak infallibly. Not only must he be speaking on matters of faith and morals, but he must also speak officially ("ex cathedra") in his capacity as head of the universal Church, not as a mere theologian or preacher. He must make it clear that he is addressing the Church as a whole and that what he is saying is intended to be the final and irrevocable word on the matter. He must make the announcement by saying something to the effect of "We declare, decree and define." And he must make it clear that the doctrine he's proclaiming is binding on all Catholics and that any Catholic who dissents will be declared anathema.
3. Know that infallible doctrines naturally overrule fallible doctrines, even if that seems to make the latter contradict the former. But infallible doctrines can be clarified.
4. Consider that the Pope is regarded as an ordinary man in that he does not possess supernatural knowledge nor does he necessarily speak for God. His knowledge and wisdom depend only on his human intellect and the extent to which he has read and studied. But he is considered to receive inspiration from the Holy Spirit so he will not lead the Church into error.
5. Know that the Pope's pronouncements on politics, science or current affairs or other matters should be respected, but they are not considered binding or dogmatic.
6. Consider that the Pope can also act infallibly in conjunction with the bishops of the world during an Ecumenical Council. Twenty-one Ecumenical Councils have been held between 325 AD and 1965.
7. Be aware that the Pope has only spoken infallibly once since the doctrine was proclaimed: in 1950 when Pius XII proclaimed the doctrine of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven. Pius IX spoke infallibly in 1854 when he declared the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception.