Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith

This Dicastery, formerly called a Congregation, has the specific mission “to promote and safeguard the doctrine on faith and morals in the whole Catholic world. Therefore, those things belong to it which touch this matter in any way. It fosters studies in order that the understanding of the faith might grow and that a response can be prepared under the light of faith for new questions arising from developments in science and human culture. It provides assistance to bishops in the exercise of their office as authentic teachers of the faith, as well as the office by which they are held to safeguard and promote its integrity. 

Finally, the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Faith is also the President of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and the International Theological Commission. The Dicastery has, as well, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors under its auspices.