The subjection of religious to the power of the diocesan bishop in the works of apostolate. Particular reference to the province of South India of the congregation of the mission

Abstract

Title: THE SUBJECTION OF RELIGIOUS TO THE POWER OF THE DIOCESAN BISHOP IN THE WORKS OF APOSTOLATE. PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO THE PROVINCE OF SOUTH INDIA OF THE CONGREGATION OF THE MISSION. Tree key words: 1. Autonomy 2. Subjection 3. Privileges of the Congregation of the Mission This paper intends to study the specific areas of subjection of religious to the power of the diocesan bishop as envisaged in c. 678 § 1, with particular reference to the province of South India of the Congregation of the Mission. Canon 678 § 1 combines elements of the CD, 35, 1 and 4. It is clear from the text of CD that all institutes whether exempt or non-exempt are completely subject to the authority of the local ordinary in matters concerning the works of apostolate. There are three general areas of subjection of religious to the power of diocesan bishop according to c. 678 § 1. They are namely care of souls, public exercise of divine worship and other works of apostolate. The basic reason for the submission of religious is that the bishop is pastor whom the Holy Spirit has appointed to direct the Holy Church of God by promoting common discipline of the Church and by urging the observance of the ecclesiastical laws. He is also the successor of the apostles. He also represents the universal Church remaining as the member of the episcopal college. A detailed analysis and understanding of the areas of subjection of religious as envisaged in the present Code of Canon Law and an in depth understanding of the congregation and the province with its autonomy and privileges will enable them to appreciate their own religious life and also enable the members of the congregation to lead a vowed missionary life with a deeper commitment.