canon law Archives - Catholic Herald

canon law

Is Pope Francis’ pragmatic approach creating a crisis for canon law?

November 19, 2021

In the eight years since his election, Pope Francis has been an active lawmaker. Beyond his well-publicized reforms, there have been many other significant but hidden legislative changes. When making these alterations, Pope Francis has mostly acted alone. The Vatican departments that normally oversee and harmonize new legislation with existing laws have been marginalized. This

‘We should never have a perfect Church’

July 04, 2021

The veteran canon lawyer Fr Ladislas Orsy, who turns 100 this month, speaks to Dr David Cowan

Johnson-Symonds and the changing face of British anti-Catholicism

June 09, 2021

"I don't expect members of panel shows or even Church Times columnists to be experts on Catholic Church law," writes Charles Collins. "But let’s face it, most of those who are upset with the Catholic Church for allowing Johnson to marry his girlfriend (and mother of his child) are more upset with the prime minister’s policies than his - or the Church’s - morals."

Richmond, Va.: Accuser recants, accused priest cleared

December 16, 2020

Fr. William Dinga has been cleared of the charge and restored to his previous position and status within the Diocese of Richmond, Va.

Keeping Quiet: The downside to “voluntary laicization”

December 11, 2020

The way Church authorities dealt with this case of adult abuse bears disturbing resemblance to the bad old days.

Jurists serving the Church

November 18, 2020

An offer of help to Catholics in need of legal problem-solving

Pope restricts bishops’ rights to approve diocesan religious communities

November 04, 2020

Local bishops must now receive express prior approval from Rome before recognising new communities of men and women religious.

Canonical reform won’t end the abuse crisis. But it can help

August 11, 2018

Public penance should be the first response. Then let's look at some basic improvements to canon law