By What Authority? Foundations for Understanding Authority in the Church by Richard R. Gaillardetz

Author:Richard R. Gaillardetz
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Liturgical Press
Published: 2018-01-30T16:00:00+00:00

The bishops, the council taught, have a distinctive responsibility to authoritatively interpret Scripture and proclaim the doctrine of the church, but:

This magisterium is not superior to the word of God, but is rather its servant. It teaches only what has been handed on to it. At the divine command and with the help of the holy Spirit, it listens to this devoutly, guards it reverently and expounds it faithfully. (DV 10)

Because the bishops do not proclaim a secret gospel but rather give an authoritative proclamation of the apostolic faith shared by the whole church, the bishop must be an effective listener if he is to be an effective teacher. The laity have much to offer to the bishops:

The laity should disclose their needs and desires to the pastors with that liberty and confidence which befits children of God and brothers and sisters in Christ. To the extent of their knowledge, competence or authority the laity are entitled, and indeed sometimes duty-bound, to express their opinion on matters which concern the good of the church. (LG 37)

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