What is papal infallibility?
The Holy Father when speaking of faith and morals and when he extends to activate his power of infallibility which flows from God at that time speaks infallibly. When an Ecumenical Council proclaims the truth of faith and morals it speaks infallibly by reason of its ordinary magisterium (teaching authority.) The above is not an everyday occurrence. But the definitive teaching of the Church binds all the faithful. It would be sinful not to accept this even if not infallibly presented. The Church’s doctrine does not restrict but liberates us in order that we can become set apart from that which hinders our love and service for God and others.
