1838
But since in this very age, in which the salutary efficacy of the apostolic
duty is especially required, not a few are found who disparage its authority,
We deem it most necessary to assert solemnly the prerogative which the
Only-begotten Son of God deigned to enjoin with the highest pastoral office.
1839
And so We, adhering faithfully to the tradition received from the beginning of
the Christian faith, to the glory of God, our Saviour, the elevation of the
Catholic religion and the salvation of Christian peoples, with the approbation
of the sacred Council, teach and explain that the dogma has been divinely
revealed, that the Roman Pontiff, when he speaks ex cathedra, that is,
when carrying out the duty of the pastor and teacher of all Christians in
accord with his supreme apostolic authority he explains a doctrine of faith or
morals to be held by the universal Church, through the divine assistance
promised him in blessed Peter, operates with that infallibility with which
the divine Redeemer wished that His church be instructed in defining
doctrine on faith and morals; and so such definitions of the Roman Pontiff
himself , but not from the consensus of the Church,
ARE UNALTERABLE.
1840
[Canon]. But if anyone presumes to contradict this definition of Ours, which
may God forbid: let him be anathema.
