Category Archives: The Pope

How Often Does the Pope Change Canon Law?

Q: You mention on your website that nobody but the Pope can change the Code of Canon Law. I’m wondering how often he really does that, if ever? Civil legislatures change laws and enact new laws every week, but I … Continue reading

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Why Are Some Suggesting That Francis’ Election Was Invalid?

Q1: I’ve read Vatican-commentators who claim that Pope Francis’ election may have been invalid, because he agreed to an agenda reforming the Church as the other cardinals wanted him to, and they say you can’t validly be elected Pope if … Continue reading

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How Many Miracles are Required to Canonize a Saint?

Q: How many miracles are required before somebody can be canonized a saint?  I thought that you needed three.  But now the Pope has announced that John Paul II will be canonized after only two miracles, and John XXIII with … Continue reading

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Is Nepotism Still an Issue in the Church?

Q: In the medieval and renaissance periods, the Church had many problems with nepotism.  We hear nothing about this issue any more, but I’m wondering whether this is still a potential problem, at least in theory.  Are there canons which … Continue reading

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Canon Law and Two Popes

Q1: Could you please outline the canonical problems inherent in the fact that now we have two living Popes?  –Rhonda Q2:  Considering that all priests and bishops must belong to a diocese or religious order, my question would be this: … Continue reading

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