Dispensation From Celibacy

The article introduces the canonical procedure connected with requesting a dispensation of celibacy in the proper way. After an initial definition of the terminology (clergy, celibacy, dispensation) it briefly summarizes the development of legal norms from the Code of Canon Law from 1917 to the present times. Furthermore, it analyzes in detail the procedure for the request for a dispensation which must be asked separately in cases of requests for release from the spiritual status of the cleric (laicization) both priests and deacons. The article goes on to list the documents which are required for completion by the Ordinary within the instructional procedures before their being sent to the Congregation for the Clergy. Since this issue is not contained in the Codes, it primarily continues with an analysis of extra-canon-Code norms. In conclusion, the difficulties connected with the dispensation procedure are enumerated.

Keywords: Clergy; Celibacy; Dispensation; Canon law; Process law; Dismissal from the clerical state (laicization); Cleric; Deacon; Priest