Tag Archives: Pope

When Will the Conclave Start? Pope Benedict’s Final Legislative Act

Posted on March 5, 2013 by

Q: I read the article “Canon Law and the Upcoming Conclave” and it was really helpful, but I have another question now.  The 15-day rule has now been revised by Pope Benedict, correct?  If so, has he given a specific … Continue reading →

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A Brief Note about Papal Resignation

Posted on February 12, 2013 by

Dear Readers, Those of us in Rome were no less stunned than the rest of the world by the Pope’s announcement yesterday.  Nobody saw it coming!  It was, therefore, a cruel coincidence that “Can a Pope Ever Resign?” was published … Continue reading →

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Can a Pope be Removed from Office?

Posted on January 31, 2013 by

Q: In a recent piece you explained that the Pope can resign if he chooses.  To me that raises another question: What would happen if a Pope became so mentally debilitated that he didn’t know what he was doing?  It … Continue reading →

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Can a Pope Ever Resign?

Posted on January 3, 2013 by

Q:  I read in a news article that Pope Benedict said he would resign, if he reached the point where he couldn’t physically handle being Pope any longer.  Is that even possible?  Can a Pope ever resign?  —Scott A:  It’s … Continue reading →

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Canon Law and the Pope’s Butler

Posted on October 25, 2012 by

Q: I understand that the Pope’s butler was arrested and convicted under Vatican civil law, and not under canon law. But didn’t he violate canon law too? I thought it was a crime under canon law to cause harm to … Continue reading →

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