Delicts of Financial Malfeasance in the Revised Book VI of the 1983 Code of Canon Law

Abstract

Abstract

Financial malfeasance in the Catholic Church stands as the second-most discussed scandal, following closely after sexual misconduct. This issue spans globally, reaching from unnoticed parishes in a diocese to the prestigious offices in the Vatican IOR. Perpetrators of such misconduct include both clerics and religious figures, occupying different positions in the church administration. The current legislation in Book VI of the 1983 Code of Canon Law has addressed two major issues that were relevant in our time: sexual abuse and financial misconduct. This dissertation concerns the latter issue. The major concern of this dissertation is to identify, examine, and analyse those canons related to financial malfeasance found in Book VI (2021).

In order to achieve this goal, the dissertation is divided into four chapters. The first chapter initiates its exploration by delving into various concepts related to temporal goods in the church. There are temporal goods, and there are ecclesiastical goods distinguished by their ownership. They assist the church in fulfilling its mission. Although the juridic person “Church” possesses ecclesiastical goods, it cannot administer them; it needs a physical person to do so. Hence, the need for an administrator for every legal person is necessitated. The second chapter on administrators delves into their duties, functions, collaborations, and limitations. It also explores the roles of different individuals and councils, such as finance administrators, pastors, finance councils, pastoral councils, and consultors. The third chapter, which is the answer to the major question raised, identifies the laws related to financial malfeasance. It meticulously examines relevant laws on financial malfeasance, their prescriptions, and the corresponding penalties. The final chapter focuses on potential preventive measures to address the ongoing abuses within the church. It explores various techniques for mitigating financial abuses, encompassing canonical, professional, and punitive approaches as deterrents to misconduct.

Thus, this research endeavors to provide a comprehensive and insightful analysis of financial malfeasance within the Catholic Church. It serves as a valuable resource for ecclesiastical authorities, scholars, and practitioners interested in promoting ethical financial stewardship within religious institutions.