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religious assent
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religious assent

Roman Catholicism
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In Roman Catholicism, the magisterium refers to the teaching authority of the pope and bishops. This authority is believed to be divinely commissioned by Jesus to the Apostles. The object of this teaching is faith and morals, encompassing revealed truths and moral principles.12

While the church expects its members to assent to its teachings, the concept of "religious assent" allows for dissent in certain situations, particularly concerning ordinary teachings that are not solemn declarations of dogma. This means that individuals can withhold assent if they believe they have a better understanding, a principle that has been applied to teachings like those against contraception. The reformers of the 16th century rejected this traditional definition of the magisterium.21

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Roman Catholicism - Object and response
  2. Roman Catholicism - The concept of teaching authority

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