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Canon lawyers are not responsible for the content of canon law. The Supreme Legislator is. Only Pope Francis can change the Code of Canon Law, so if you're not happy with what the law says, please take it up with him.
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Category Archives: Clergy Issues
Can a Priest Ever Reveal What is Said in Confession? (Part II)
Q1: I would like to put before you a question with regards to revealing of confessional substance under the permission granted by the penitent. My question is “Whether by the penitent’s permission, a priest may reveal to another a sin … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Confession, Crimes and Sanctions, Parish Life, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, confession, excommunication, sacramental seal, seal of confession
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When Can Parish Buildings be Rented Out for Secular Use?
Q: Our parish church is located in a two-story building. The church where we have Mass is on the first floor and there is classroom space on the second floor. The bishop has decided to lease the classroom space to a public … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Parish Life
Tagged bishop, canon law, Catholic, parish, pastor, property, rent
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What’s the Difference Between a Cathedral Rector and a Parish Priest?
Q: Greetings, who is in charge of a Cathedral Parish? The Bishop or the Priest? Our priest (he is listed as the “Rector”) states it is his parish, but I feel obligated to obey what our Bishop states to be … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Parish Life
Tagged canon law, cathedral, Catholic, parish, pastor, rector
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Who’s in Charge of the Diocese When There’s No Bishop?
Q: We have a lot of confusion in our parish…. Complicating the equation, our diocesan bishop has retired and the Pope has yet to name his successor. We have a diocesan administrator, but he is also currently the bishop of … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Parish Life, The Pope
Tagged bishop, canon law, Catholic, diocese
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Sex-Abuse Scandals, Transparency, and the Right to a Good Reputation
Q: In a previous article, you stated that under canon law we all have the right to privacy and a good reputation. I’m having a hard time reconciling these rights with the need for transparency in the Church regarding sexual … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Crimes and Sanctions
Tagged canon law, Catholic, clergy, reputation, sexual abuse, transparency
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