Does the Pope speak "ex-cathedra" whenever he speaks?

Question

Many people think so, but what is the truth of the matter.

Answer 1

No.

The Catholic Church teaches that the Pope is infallible at closely defined times.

The Pope is only infallible when he, in union with the body of bishops, solemnly teaches that a doctrine as true. This is called "ex cathedra", literally meaning in Latin "from the chair".

This comes from the words of Jesus to Peter (the first Pope) and the Apostles (the first bishops), "Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven" (Matthew 18:18) and "He who hears you hears me" (Luke 10:16).

At all other times the Pope can be just as wrong or sinful as you and me and be in need of forgiveness.

For more information, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church, section 891: http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/pt1sect2chpt3art9p4.htm#891 and http://www.catholic.com/library/Papal_Infallibility.asp

With love in Christ.

Answer 2

No. The pope speaks "ex cathedra" only when defining doctrine. Its a rare thing. Ex cathedra means from the chair. If the pope says "this pizza is great!" its not speaking ex cathedra. Even in terms of church issues it would not be considered ex cathedra. There is an enormous amount of misunderstanding on the teaching of infallibility. As an atheist, I do not, of course believe in it, but I dislike misconceptions even more! :-)

Answer 3

No, only when he speaks from a specially designated lectern which is the modern version of the chair in which he used to sit to give ex cathedra proclaimations

Answer 4

No one knows the truth of the matter except him and God.

Answer 5

No, he does not. I am not Catholic, but that does not mean that I am ignorant to their teachings.

Answer 6

ex-what????????