Infallible Declarations


Question from Jim on 12/20/2007:

Would you please explain the meaning and purpose of infallible statements, as compared to dogma and doctrine. I am confused. Thank you. Jim

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 1/9/2008:

Dear Jim,

The ordinary teachings of the Church (which are called doctrines or dogmas) are already infallible. But some of these teachings like the Immaculate Conception or the Assumption of Our Lady, which were ordinary teachings, have been declared as infallible by the Pope in a formal way and explicit way. Remember that Catholic believe in all the basic teachings of the Church because they come from God. Since God cannot make a mistake, the Church cannot make a mistake. The reason why some teachings are declared infallible in a formal way i the desire of the Church to emphasize their importance.

Dr. Geraghty

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