3.9 The Magisterium's views on the Trinity

What is the Magisterium?

The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Catholic Church, made up of the Pope and bishops. It comes from the authority of the apostles.

How does the Magisterium get its authority?

The Magisterium's authority comes from apostolic succession, an unbroken line of authority passed down from the twelve apostles, especially from St. Peter.

What is the role of the Pope in the Magisterium?

The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church and the leader of the Magisterium, which also includes the bishops.

What is the significance of a Council in the Catholic Church?

A Council is a gathering of the Pope and bishops to discuss important issues. Decisions made during Councils are considered infallible as Catholics believe they are guided by the Holy Spirit.

Why was the Council of Nicaea called in 325 CE?

The Council of Nicaea was called to address the teachings of Arius, who claimed that only God the Father was eternal, not God the Son.

What did the Council of Nicaea conclude about the nature of the Trinity?

The Council of Nicaea concluded that the Son is eternally begotten from the Father, and that the Father and Son are co-equal and of the same nature.

What was discussed at the Council of Constantinople in 381 CE?

The Council of Constantinople discussed further disputes about the nature of the Trinity and reaffirmed the belief that the Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Trinity.

What does the Nicene Creed say about the Holy Spirit?

The Nicene Creed states that the Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Trinity, and "he proceeds from the Father."

What is the Nicene Creed?

The Nicene Creed is a statement of faith produced by the Councils of Nicaea and Constantinople, affirming that Jesusis both fully God and fully human, and that the Holy Spirit is fully God.

Why are the decisions made by the Councils considered infallible?

The decisions of the Councils are considered infallible because Catholics believe the Holy Spirit guides the Pope and bishops when making official declarations of faith.