Ad Petri Cathedram

On Truth, Unity, and Peace in a Spirit of Charity

St. John XXIII1959-06-29Current

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Overview

Links truth, unity, charity, and peace in society, family life, the Church, and the hope for Christian reunion.

Why This Document Matters

It introduces major themes of John XXIII’s pontificate and his call for a council.

Historical Context

Issued by St. John XXIII in 1959, this papal encyclical addresses the pastoral, doctrinal, or governing needs of its period while remaining part of the Church's continuing documentary tradition.

Authority and Status

Genre: Papal Encyclical
Authority class: Papal encyclical
Juridical force: Doctrinal and pastoral
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1959-06-29

Authoritative papal teaching; the weight of individual statements depends on their wording, subject, continuity, and intent.

Key Points

EcclesiologyEcumenism & Interreligious DialogueSocial Teaching

Major Themes

EcclesiologyEcumenism & Interreligious DialogueSocial Teaching

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Ad Petri Cathedram

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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