[PugetSoundSoldier]

I agree that the doctrines must be checked by the Scripture. That happens to be a Cathoic teaching as well.

Unless that doctrine is ex cathedra, such as the eternal chastity of Mary, or her sinless nature. According to the Catechism there can be no question; the debate is over.

[bdeaner]

According to the Catechism there can be no question; the debate is over.

Correct. Ex Cathedra teachings are not up for debate among Catholics. They are considered infallible, and their rejection is heresy, the result of which is excommunication.

Protestants similarly hold that canonized Scripture is infallible and that their rejection is not up for debate. The Catholic Church simply has an expanded conception of the Word which includes inspired, ex cathedra teachings of the Magisterium--teachings which cannot and never have contradicted Scripture -- which is not to say that there are not alternative interpretations, but such alternatives are considered heretical. Note, however, that Church teachings do not add to Scripture; they are teachings on the Scriptures.

[annalex]

It is the obligation of the Magisterium of the Church, including, of course, the Holy Father, to check any theological utterings not only against the Holy Scripture but also against the entire doctrinal catechesis of the Church, prior to promulgating any doctrine. It is true that once an infallible determination has been made, it is binding, but the reason it is binding is that is it authentic historically and scripturally.

The Pope, or the councils, never advance new doctrines. They clarify existing doctrines, often in application to the questions the flock has. For example, the teaching against abortion, euthanasia and contraception is not a new doctrine; it is the clarification of the position the Church has always had in application to the new technological possibilites unavailable — blissfully — in 1c.