Today's Word of the Day

Ex Cathedra
(ehks KATH-uh-druh)

(Latin: from the throne) Term describing the most solemn and authoritative infallible statements of the Church. The First Vatican Council (1869-1870) declared that the Pope may teach infallibly when he speaks: (1) as the Supreme Pastor; (2) in virtue of his apostolic authority as St. Peter's successor; (3) in matters of faith and morals; (4) so as to bind the universal Church.

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Yesterday's Word of the Day

(AL-lo-KYÖÖ-shuhn)

1. An address given by the Pope to the College of Cardinals during a secret consistory. If relevant to the faithful, the allocution is later published. 2. The address by the Legion of Mary spiritual director to the Legionaries at each weekly meeting.

Catholic Dictionary edited by Reverend Peter M.J. Stravinskas, Ph.D., S.T.L.
Our Sunday Visitor's Catholic Dictionary. Copyright © 2004, Our Sunday Visitor, Inc.