The Parameters of Papal Infallibilty

[PrayforMallory]

With all the SSPX discussions, and the liturgy discussions in general, I’ve become curious as to the permissible degree of questioning a faithful Catholic is allowed to pursue.

Also, what are the limits of infallibility? When does it become a mortal sin to disagree with the Holy Father?

Thanks.

 

[NicPais83]

With all the SSPX discussions, and the liturgy discussions in general, I’ve become curious as to the permissible degree of questioning a faithful Catholic is allowed to pursue.

Also, what are the limits of infallibility? When does it become a mortal sin to disagree with the Holy Father?

Thanks.

St. Paul instructs us to test all things and retain all that is good. Christ never asked that we follow the Church blindly. In terms of disagreeing, the Holy Father is infallible when speaking ex cathedra on matters of faith and morals, as defined by the First Vatican Council. If the Pope says that he hates chicken, we are not bound to give up chicken. If, while speaking ex cathedra, the Pope says that we are not allowed to embrace contraceptives and abortion, then we are bound on that issue. While the Popes have spoken ex cathedra on a number of issues, such as abortion, it isn’t that often that you really see it, and it’s never done on a whim. Likewise, an Ecumenical Council speaks infallibly when united with the Pope.