More Things Orsy Thinks Are Interesting …

“A reasonable and legitimate question: Why is there throughout the Catholic Church so much aversion to canon law? A tentative answer: because our people, blessed with a sense of faith, instinctively sense that some (many?) of our laws are not in the service of values of higher order.” (p. 81)

So he suggests a thorough revision based on solid theological grounds:

“A comprehensive critical study of the relationship between the values asserted by the Council and the postconciliar legislation remains to be done. We are far from having accomplished an authentic aggiornamento of our canon law. Nevertheless, I can think of two significant initiatives toward progress that are immediately feasible. One is in the realm of theory and the other in the field of practice.

“1. In preparation for a future revision of the Code of Canon Law, we should have a group of competent and dedicated theologians and canon lawyers that work closely together to identify afresh the theological values that need legal support. The result of their study could be submitted to the (future) pontifical commission charged with reviewing the whole system. [me - or bishop’s commission] If such a preparatory work is well done, and if it is made public, it would be difficult to ignore it. [me - !!!] Its content would give it authority. That is a worthy challenge for a professional Canon Law Society.

“2. In the field of practice, the reform should start with the administration of justice. We should make our courts autonomous (as much as possible without hurting any dogma) and start dispensing fair and speedy justice. The doctrine of sacramentally conferred episcopal power need not exclude operational independence. What an asset it would be for a new evangelization if the Catholic Church had the reputation of being exemplary to the nations in the administration of justice!” (p. 89-90)

Indeed. Instead of the opposite.

Tags: canon law