Hey there,
I’ve learned a lot about Catholicism since I began Genuflect. As a cradle Catholic who attended Catholic school, you’d think I wouldn’t have had that much to learn.
But it’s not unusual as I’m researching one topic, for another topic to jump out at me. That’s what happened in the case of the magisterium.
The magi-what?
That’s right. I had never heard of the magisterium before. I imagined it was yet another official collection of documents of some sort.
No exactly.
And that makes sense because we already have plenty of official writings about Catholicism.
Merriam-Webster defines magisterium as:
“Teaching authority especially of the Roman Catholic Church.”
And the Catechism of the Catholic Church describes it as:
“The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form or in the form of Tradition, has been entrusted to the living, teaching office of the Church alone. Its authority in this matter is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ.” (CCC 85)
I’ve discovered there’s a lot to it. So this week’s issue of Genuflect uncovers what you need to know about the magisterium, with a dip into infallibility too.
Hopefully these resources will clear up the magisterium mystery for you too!
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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The Magisterium Explained
If you’re confused at all by the use of the term magisterium, check out this article by Jimmy Akin. He clearly lays out the origins of the word, its various uses, and exactly what it is … and is not.
Magisterium | Catholic Answers
The Catechism on The Magisterium
The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains magisterium. And according to Philip Kosloski, the Pope and bishops are aided by the Holy Spirit in this task, as descendants of Saint Peter and the apostles, and seen in the Bible.
What is The Magisterium of The Catholic Church? | Aleteia
The Magisterium in 4 Parts
For a more in-depth discussion about all things magisterium, we turn to Dr. Marcellino D’Ambrosio. He offers a 4-part series on the magisterium, including what it is, what it covers, infallibility, and the non-infallible. This link takes you to part 1 and you’ll find the links to the other 3 in the series at the end of the article. Enjoy.
Magisterium Part 1: What is it & Why Do We Need it? | Crossroads Initiative
The Magisterium is a Clutch
Betty Parquette offers this ingenious analogy for the magisterium. In it, the Catholic Church is a manual car and the magisterium is the clutch. Check this out.
The Magisterium: An Analogy | Catholic Stand
Governance vs. Magisterium
What’s the difference between governance and magisterium? Non-Catholic Christians do not use the term magisterium, but they do manage to settle disputes. Rory Fox looks at the difference between governance and magisterium and defends the need for the magisterium.
Magisterium: Blessing or Curse? | Catholic Stand
Infallible Magisterium
You’ve probably heard of infallibility when it comes to the Pope. And maybe you’ve heard of it in reference to the magisterium. It can be confusing and some myths persist even today. Beginning Catholic clears it up for us.
Truth And Infallibility in The Catholic Church | Beginning Catholic
5 Infallibility Myths Debunked
You may want to check out these 5 common myths about papal infallibility to make sure you’re clear on the subject.
5 Myths About Papal Infallibility Too Many People Still Believe (Maybe Even You!) | ChurchPOP
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