What is necessary that the Pope may speak infallibly or ex-cathedra?
A. That the Pope may speak infallibly, or ex-cathedra: • He must speak on a subject of faith or morals; • He must speak as the Vicar of Christ and to the whole Church; • He must indicate by certain words, such as, we define, we proclaim, etc., that he intends to speak infallibly. Q. 532. Is the Pope infallible in everything he says and does? A. The Pope is not infallible in everything he says and does, because the Holy Ghost was not promised to make him infallible in everything, but only in matters of faith and morals for the whole Church. Nevertheless, the Pope’s opinion on any subject deserves our greatest respect on account of his learning, experience and dignity. Q. 533. Can the Pope commit sin? A. The Pope can commit sin and he must seek forgiveness in the Sacrament of Penance as others do. Infallibility does not prevent him from sinning, but from teaching falsehood when he speaks ex-cathedra. Q. 534. What does ex-cathedra mean? A. “Cathedra” means a seat, and “ex” means out of. T
