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christian-ecclesiology-sacramentsWe're still mapping where this idea was first discussed. Key passages and related ideas below.

Papal Infallibility

When the pope defines doctrine from the chair, is he kept from error?

Papal infallibility is the Catholic doctrine that the pope, when defining doctrine ex cathedra, is preserved from error. It was defined as dogma at the First Vatican Council in 1870. The traditions differ sharply: Catholics hold it as binding dogma, while Orthodox and Protestant traditions reject it, locating doctrinal authority elsewhere, such as in councils or Scripture.

Key passages(6)