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Category Archives: Crimes and Sanctions
Could a Pope Ever Be Excommunicated? (“Excommunication” Defined)
Q: There are certain enumerated acts which trigger automatic, latae sententiae excommunication. Some of these acts could conceivably be performed by a Pope; for instance, it seems a Pope could help procure an abortion. Is it, then, theoretically possible for a Pope … Continue reading
Posted in Crimes and Sanctions, The Pope
Tagged canon law, Catholic, excommunicate, excommunication, Pope
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Can a Pope Commit Heresy? (“Heresy” Defined)
Q: In theory, can a Pope commit heresy? If so, I’m trying to figure out who could declare that he was a heretic. What would happen? –Thomas A: This question had already been asked, before the September 24 announcement that … Continue reading
Can You Be Both a Catholic and a Sedevacantist?
Q: I have recently become friends with someone who follows Sedevacantism. It has provided an opportunity for me to be challenged to more fully understand church teaching. Would you consider sharing your wisdom and expertise to explain why Sedevacantism is … Continue reading
Posted in Crimes and Sanctions, The Pope
Tagged canon law, Catholic, Pope, schism, sedevacantist
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Granting Absolution to an Accomplice in Sin
Q: Many young ladies have approached me with this question: they were taught that a woman who breaks the 6th commandment with a Catholic priest, if she goes to confession to the priest, that her sins will never be forgiven and that … Continue reading
Posted in Clergy Issues, Confession, Crimes and Sanctions, Sacraments
Tagged absolution, accomplice, canon law, Catholic, confession
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Excommunication and Bad-Mouthing the Pope
Q: During this Jubilee Year, “Missionaries of Mercy” have been sent around the world with special powers to lift excommunications. The Vatican Archbishop who made this announcement mentioned the excommunicable crime of physical violence against the Pope, and said that … Continue reading
Posted in Crimes and Sanctions, The Pope
Tagged canon law, Catholic, excommunication, Fisichella, Pope
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