Ex cathedra
The
Latin phrase Ex Cathedra, literally meaning "from the throne (of St Peter)" is applied in
Catholic theology to statements made by the
pope in his capacity as
infallible guide and teacher of the faithful. A papal statement made
ex cathedra is said to be protected by the
Holy Ghost from all error. However, difficulties often arise when Catholic theologians disagree about whether or not certain statements have been made
ex cathedra and when Catholic theologians accept that a statement has been made
ex cathedra, but nevertheless disagree about precisely what this infallibly true statement means.
See also: