follows: 'Therefore the infallibility of the Roman Pontiff, although it is not expressly defined by the Church, is yet proximately definable; because it is a theological truth, altogether certain, contained in the scriptures, and confirmed by the perpetual tradition of the Church, and the common consent of the fathers and doctors: and, as Bellarmin said, the opposite doctrine "appears altogether erroneous, and proximate to heresy, so that it might well be declared heretical by the judgment of the Church." And though it be not de fide, as to the obligation of believing it, imposed on all by the Church, yet it is de fide as to its object; and also as to its obligation with regard to those who are certain, on grounds which form their conviction, that this truth is revealed: and this certainty almost all Catholic doctors have, except some few in France. But in a thing of so much weight, a]l are bound to examine the grounds on which rests the proof that the Roman Pontiff defining ex cathedrâ cannot err: for whosoever denies to the Roman Pontiff the privilege of infallibility granted to him by Christ, whether from not having diligently examined the controversy, or because he is carried away by some human motive, and so errs in forming his judgment, would not be held guiltless before God; inasmuch as his error would be culpable, and his ignorance vincible.'[1]
- ↑ 'Itaque infallibilitas Romani Pontificis, licet non sit expresse definita ab Ecclesiâ, est tamen proxime definibilie, quia est veritas
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