Teaching Office

The Teaching Office of the Church—more commonly known as the Magisterium—is the authority entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and their successors (the Pope and the bishops in communion with him). Its task is to give an authentic interpretation of the Word of God, whether in its written form (Sacred Scripture) or in the form of Tradition (CCC 85).

Servant of the Word

The Teaching Office is not superior to the Word of God, but is its servant. It teaches only what has been handed on to it. At the divine command and with the help of the Holy Spirit, it listens to this devotedly, guards it with dedication, and expounds it faithfully. The faithful are called to receive the teachings of the Magisterium with docility and obedience of faith (CCC 86-87).