Catholic World News

Liturgical reform is goal as Pope amends canon law

September 28, 2011

Pope Benedict XVI has removed some canonical cases from the jurisdiction of the Congregation for Divine Worship, in an administrative move designed to give that Congregation's work a sharper focus on liturgical reform.

With a motu proprio entitled Quaerit Semper, the Pontiff modified canon law to provide that cases involving an unconsummated marriage, and some other cases including annulments of priestly ordination, will be handled by the Roman Rota. A new office of the Roman Rota will be established for these cases.

The motu proprio has the effect of allowing the Congregation for Divine Worship to concentrate on liturgical issues. In a brief statement explaining his intent, the Pope said that the Congregation should now be "free more fully to dedicate itself to the renewal of the Sacred Liturgy."

 


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  • Posted by: - Sep. 28, 2011 11:51 PM ET USA

    The music! The music! Hurry.

  • Posted by: koinonia - Sep. 28, 2011 8:16 PM ET USA

    There is much work yet to be done; thank you Holy Father for perseverence in the work of liturgical reform.