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Category Archives: Parish Life
(Repost:) Confession and General Absolution
Unfortunately, reposting this piece is almost 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 worth reading it once again. A very … Continue reading
Posted in Confession, Parish Life, Rights of the Faithful, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, confession, general absolution, penance
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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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When Can a Church be Used for Non-Liturgical Events?
Q: There are things taking place in the “sanctuary” of my parish church that I feel are inappropriate… and not in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church. The modern worship space was built in the early 1990s…. The … Continue reading
Posted in Other Canonical Questions, Parish Life
Tagged canon law, Catholic, church, sanctuary, worship space
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Why Is the Priest Telling Me Not to Talk to a Canon Lawyer?
Q: As you advised, I spoke to my parish priest [about the invalidity of my marriage] and he “kindly and strongly” advised me on a couple things: 1) That I should not even be discussing this with you because you … Continue reading
Posted in Marriage, Parish Life, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, convalidation, marriage, parish priest, valid
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When Can You Get a Dispensation, and Who Can Grant It?
Q1: I have a question regarding St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), when it falls on a Friday in Lent. A friend says that although a dispensation may or may not be given, one may dispense oneself due to the fact … Continue reading
Posted in Other Canonical Questions, Parish Life, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, dispensation, sacrament
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