The Bishop as Judge in the Pontificate of Pope Francis

Authors

  • Felipe Heredia Esteban Tribunal Apostólico da Rota Romana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31240/2595-1165.vol6n11a2023pp21-40

Keywords:

Bishop as judge, Pontificate of Pope Francis, Canonical reform, Declaration of nullity, Processus brevior

Abstract

The reform initiated by Pope Francis aims to make the processes for a declaration of nullity more accessible and efficient. Through the documents "Mitis Iudex Dominus Iesus" and "Mitis et misericors Iesus," the Pope emphasizes the pivotal role of diocesan bishops in administering ecclesiastical justice, promoting episcopal collegiality, and fostering a synodal Church. This reform highlights the responsibilities of bishops by comparing the Codes of Canon Law from 1917 and 1983, underscoring the continuity and evolution of these roles. The introduction of the "Processus brevior" allows for quicker and simpler procedures for declarations of nullity, reflecting the Pope's commitment to decentralizing justice and ensuring pastoral proximity, thereby providing more effective and compassionate care to the faithful.

Author Biography

Felipe Heredia Esteban, Tribunal Apostólico da Rota Romana

Mons. Felipe Heredia Esteban foi ordenado presbítero em 21 de junho de 1987 e pertence ao clero da diocese de Calahorra e La Calzada-Logroño (Espanha). Sempre envolvido no ensino do direito canônico, foi juiz do Tribunal da Rota da Nunciatura Apostólica de Madri de 2007 a 2011 e atualmente é auditor prelado do Tribunal Apostólico da Rota Romana, nomeado por Bento XVI em 26 de setembro de 2011. Possui diversas publicações científicas, incluindo, por exemplo, El ministerio parroquial “in solidum” en el derecho particular, in Cuadernos doctorales 15 (1998), pp. 68-166 e Relevancia procesal del fracasso de las relaciones interpersonales en el matrimonio, in Ius Canonicum 57 (2017), pp. 707-738.

Capa Scientia Canonia v 6 n 11

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Published

2024-08-12

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 11: Jan./Jun. 2023

Section

Articles