Fr Kampan Chinnam –
Guwahati: The second day of the four-day 37th Annual Conference of the Canon Law Society of India (CLSI) unfolded with dynamic discussions on penal sanctions within the Church. Renowned canonist Rev. Dr. Merlin Rengith Ambrose kicked off the day’s sessions with a thought-provoking presentation titled “Penalties & Other Punishments in General in Book VI of CIC 1983.” He examined the updates and amendments in the penal sections of Canon Law, noting, “Some concepts in the revised Book VI are derived from the 1917 Code.” His insights shed light on the specific canons that were added, amended, or omitted.
Dr. Merlin emphasized the critical balance between mercy and justice, declaring, “Mercy without justice is not true justice, and vice versa.” This theme sparked a crucial discussion among participants regarding the law’s approach to victims, with one canonist highlighting, “While we focus on the culprits, the law appears silent on those who suffer.”
To address financial misappropriations, the revised Book VI now requires culprits to reimburse misappropriated funds as determined by the Local Ordinary (Bishop/Provincials).
Following a brief tea break, CLSI President Rev. Dr. T. Lourdusamy took the stage to discuss “Particular Offences and Punishments.” His comprehensive exploration of the canons related to delicts against faith, morals, and human dignity was met with appreciation, as attendees remarked on his meticulous presentation style that effectively condensed complex topics into digestible segments.
Next, Rev. Dr. John Diraviam led the session on “Penal Procedures: Judicial and Extra-Judicial Procedures,”detailing the stages of penal processes, including preliminary investigations and rights of defense for clerics facing dismissal. He clarified key juridical terms such as “notitia de delicto” and “acta,” crucial for understanding the legal proceedings surrounding delicts.
Fr. Sebastian Payyappilly, CMI, contributed to the discussion on clerical dismissals, stating, “The process begins with any credible information regarding a delict that reaches the Ordinary. This ensures accountability at all levels.”
The conference witnesses the participation of first Telugu Syrian priest from Adilabad with a doctorate in Canon Law, Fr. Jojappa Polisetti, who expressed his enthusiasm: “This is my first CLSI conference, and I am thrilled to learn from fellow canonists.” Fr. Thomas Kurma, a Canon Law professor visiting the Northeast for the first time, shared his excitement: “I look forward to our trip to Shillong.”
As the day concluded, participants gathered for the Holy Rosary, walking around the NSDD Campus in front of the grotto, and enjoyed a fellowship meal sponsored by the Guwahati Archdiocese. Notably, Archbishop John Moolachira of Guwahati, Bishop Elias Frank of Asansol, and Auxiliary Bishop Jose Chirackal of Tura actively participated throughout the sessions, demonstrating their commitment to the vital role of Canon Law in the Church.
Looking ahead, the third day promises to deliver significant sessions, including: Session VI: Role of the Laity in the Synodal Church by Rev. Dr. Paul Ngaoni, Session VII: Participatory Structures in the Particular Churches from the Synodal Perspective by Rev. Dr. Joseph Antony
Session IX: Protection of Minors and Penal Sanctions by Rev. Dr. Biju Perumayan and Session X: Panel Discussion.
This conference serves as a pivotal platform for fostering understanding and collaboration among canonists dedicated to the ongoing development of Church law.