Papal Infallibility
"Can the Pope make mistakes?"
The Short Answer
When the Pope speaks ex cathedra (from the chair) on matters of faith and morals, he is preserved from error by the Holy Spirit. This does not mean the Pope is impeccable or always right.
Quick Overview
Infallibility is like a guarantee that the Pope can't officially teach something false about faith or morals. It doesn't mean he's perfect or that his personal opinions are always right—just that when he solemnly defines Church teaching, God protects him from error.
Biblical Evidence
What the Scriptures say
What the Church Teaches
Official Catholic doctrine
The Pope is infallible only when: (1) he speaks as supreme shepherd of the Church, (2) on a matter of faith or morals, (3) defining a doctrine to be held by all the faithful (CCC 891). This is rare and carefully defined.
Common Objections
Questions answered
Early Church Fathers
What the first Christians believed
St. Irenaeus
c. 180 AD
"It is a matter of necessity that every Church should agree with this Church [Rome], on account of its preeminent authority."
— Against Heresies, 3:3:2
St. Augustine
c. 417 AD
"Rome has spoken; the case is closed."
— Sermons, 131:10
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