The Charism of Infallibility: Re-Receiving Pastor Aeternus’ Teaching on Papal Infallibility in Light of Iuvenescit Ecclesia’s Teaching on Charismatic Gifts

Abstract More than 150 years since Vatican I, the definition of papal infallibility continues to be a major obstacle in work for Christian unity. In response ecumenical and historical objections, Roman Catholic scholars have tended downplay claims priori certainty by stressing epistemological role ecclesial reception. The present essay argues that this approach can greatly strengthened through re-examining decision Pastor Aeternus describe as charism, particularly light understanding charisms found Lumen Gentium and, more recently, Iuvenescit Ecclesia .