Subsidiarity

The Church consistently teaches that this doctrine must be interpreted within the harmony of faith and reason, avoiding reductionism or distortion. It safeguards revealed truth while inviting deeper intellectual assent and personal conversion. The theological articulation of subsidiarity developed over centuries through the reflection of the Fathers, the decrees of ecumenical councils, and the pastoral life of the Church. Subsidiarity designates a defined doctrinal reality within the Catholic faith that arises from divine revelation and is authoritatively interpreted by the Church’s Magisterium. It is grounded in Sacred Scripture and transmitted through Sacred Tradition, forming part of the coherent unity of Christian teaching.