What is the difference between the Extraordinary and Ordinary Magisterium?
The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Church entrusted to the Pope and the bishops in communion with him. The Extraordinary Magisterium is exercised in two definitive ways: when the Pope speaks 'ex cathedra' to define a dogma of faith or morals, or when an Ecumenical Council in union with the Pope defines doctrine. The Ordinary and Universal Magisterium is exercised when bishops worldwide, teaching in communion with the Roman Pontiff, agree on a doctrine to be held definitively. Catholics owe religious submission of will and intellect to the authentic teaching of both.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 888-892
- Luke 10:16
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.