cathedra

is a Latin word derived from the Greek word for “chair,” and is used to refer to the seat of a bishop’s authority. Consequently, the home church building where a bishopA person holding the ecclesiastical office that exerciseds authority over the laity and priests in a geographical area called a “diocese” where th... more presides is call a cathedral. Pursuant to Vatican I(A.D. 1869–1870) The ecumenical council of Roman Catholic bishops called and presided over by Pope Pius IX that was held between 1869–1870, and at... more in 1870, when a popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Aposto... more speaks ex cathedraAn official papal declaration that is deemed infallible. See cathedra. more (“from the chair” of PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ l... more) his decreesThe concept that God orders specific things to occur. This concept is influential in Calvinist theology which maintains that everything that happens i... more are infallible.