The Magisterium is a term used in the Catholic Church to refer to the official teaching authority of the Church, which includes the Pope and the bishops in union with him. The term "magisterium" comes from the Latin word for "teacher" (magister) . The Magisterium has several meanings in contemporary Catholic usage, including:

• Teaching authority: The Magisterium refers to the teaching authority given by Christ to the Church. This usage refers to the authority itself, not those who exercise it. The Church exercises its magisterium when it authoritatively proclaims Christs teachings.

• Those who exercise teaching authority: The term can also refer to those who exercise the teaching authority, namely the Pope and the bishops teaching in union with him. Collectively, they are referred to as the "Magisterium".

• Body of teachings: The term can also refer to a particular body of teachings that have been authoritatively proclaimed.

The Magisterium is charged with interpreting and applying Scripture and Tradition, but it is not superior to the Deposit of Faith, which it serves as its guardian, preserving and communicating these truths to every generation of believers for all time under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Magisterium is believed to teach the truth infallibly on matters of faith and morals, and its authority comes from Christ himself, who extended this authority to Saint Peter and the Apostles. The Magisterium is necessary because, without it, humanity cannot correctly understand Gods revelation.