Final answer:
The Catholic Church had a special authority to speak the truth about social relationships due to its historical position of power and influence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Catholic Church had a special authority to speak the truth about social relationships due to its historical position of power and influence. From the 4th to the 19th century, the Catholic Church held significant political power in Europe and was the seat of knowledge and literacy. As the Church controlled the interpretation of the Bible and had the ability to excommunicate individuals, it had the authority to shape social norms and enforce its teachings.