Father, how binding are Papal encyclicals when it comes to Church law and doctrine?
Answer Hi, Gene: Usually the language of the particular document will indicate the degree to which the teaching is binding on the faithful. In most cases, encyclicals tend to be reiterations of teachings in particular instances that hearken back to regular and ordinary magisterial teaching, and at the least are due “obsequium.” There is not an exact definition for “obsequium”, but it implies due respect (the obligation to take a look at it), and not to take upon oneself any kind of course of action to publicly repudiate or teach contrary to it in an official capacity and manner, in spite of any personal opinion, especially among the clergy. Fr.
