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Author Archives: Cathy Caridi
Holydays of Obligation, Part II
Q1: It seems like this year [2019] the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is transferred to December 9, Monday. So, we have a kind of double obligation. (I know that in some countries bishops lift the obligation in such cases, … Continue reading
Posted in Holy Mass, Other Canonical Questions
Tagged canon law, Catholic, holyday of obligation, holydays
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How Can A Priest’s Ministry Be Illicit?
Q: I am a seminarian, and recently heard a priest tell a story of when he was a catechist, prior to seminary, and had to do a communion service. He had expected a priest to show up and start Mass … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Holy Orders, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, illiceity, illicit, irregularity, ordination, priest
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Can the Bishop Refuse to Ordain Me Because I’m Too Old?
Q: I’m interested in becoming a permanent deacon, but the director of the program in my diocese says the upper age limit, which I have passed, is set by canon law. He wrote to me, “The upper age limit for … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Holy Orders
Tagged canon law, Catholic, deacon, diaconate, ordain, ordination
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Confession and General Absolution (Repost)
Reposting this piece is unfortunately becoming a Christmas tradition, since reports continue to surface of abuses of the Sacrament of Penance during this busy season. For that reason it may be worthwhile to read it once again. A very … Continue reading
Posted in Confession, Parish Life, Sacraments
Tagged absolution, canon law, Catholic, confession, penance
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If I Become a Catholic, What Happens to My Marriage? (Part III)
Q: Neither me or my wife are baptized, but we both desire to be and plan on going through the RCIA process in order to do so. I believe I understand that our marriage is valid according to natural law … Continue reading
Posted in Canonical Issues Involving Non-Catholics, Marriage, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, marriage, non-catholic, wedding
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