January 2026

The 1983 Code derives from one and the same intention, the renewal of Christian living. From such an intention, in fact, the entire work of the council drew its norms and its direction

The presumption of innocence aligns with the spirituality of canon law, as it relieves the burdened conscience of those falsely accused of wrongdoing.

“Charity demands that the Church’s pastors resort to the penal system whenever it is required, keeping in mind the three aims that make it necessary in the ecclesial community: the restoration of the demands of justice, the correction of the guilty party and the repair of scandals” – Pope Francis

Canonists emphasise the need to continue imposing automatic penalties, given the peculiarity of the penal canonical law system, which requires that crimes of extreme gravity, of deep wickedness, of widespread scandal be punished immediately.