Reception (of Doctrine)

Consent of the faithful to statements of the church's faith. An ancient view states that the truth of a doctrine is known by the universality of its reception or acceptance in the church. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the entire church can receive and recognize God's truth in Christ. Whenever an attempt is made to define the faith of the church, it is necessary for the community of believers to recognize the truth of the faith statement made on their behalf. This recognition and consent is the reception of the doctrine by the church. See Infallibility, Papal.