magisterium

The magisterium, in Roman Catholicism, refers to the teaching authority of the church, primarily held by bishops and the pope. This authority is believed to be divinely commissioned by Jesus to the Apostles. The magisterium's teachings focus on matters of faith and morals.12

While all baptized members share in the church's mission, the specific teaching authority is vested in those in office and learned theologians. The church asserts that its teachings on faith and morals are binding on its members. When the pope teaches solemnly on faith and morals, he is considered to teach infallibly. However, the exact limits of this authority and the proper response to its teachings, particularly concerning matters not explicitly defined as dogma, can be complex and have been subject to theological discussion.12