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How did the 1983 Code of Canon Law give local bishops more autonomy?
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canon law
Council of Nicaea in 325, depicted in a Byzantine fresco in the basilica of St. Nicholas in Demre, Turkey.
The 1983 Code of Canon Law increased the autonomy of local bishops by incorporating the theological insights of the Second Vatican Council and emphasizing the principle of subsidiarity.12
This shift toward decentralization was guided by several key principles:
- Subsidiarity: The revision followed the principle that matters should not be committed to higher authorities if they can be effectively handled by individuals or subordinate bodies, while still maintaining the unity of law and jurisdiction.2
- Pastoral Discretion: The code encouraged providing pastoral workers with more discretionary powers and granted greater freedom to bishops, particularly those serving in mission areas.2
- Local Adaptation: The new laws were designed to allow for ample possibility for local adaptation, ensuring that regulations could be moderated according to specific pastoral needs rather than relying solely on rigid, centralized prescriptions.12
- Service-Oriented Governance: The governing power of the hierarchy was redefined as a call to serve, encouraging bishops to focus on the active participation of the "people of God" within their particular churches.31