Apostolic nuncio in Poland reminds clergy to obey church law

Published: 2006-01-16

WARSAW, Poland (CNS) -- The Vatican's representative in Poland has reminded clergy that they must obey canon law and warned against insubordination. "Clergy of the Catholic Church, irrespective of current or past functions, have a duty to uphold canon law provisions," said Archbishop Jozef Kowalczyk, the apostolic nuncio in Poland, in a statement. "Activity in disregard for or against church law is considered unlawful and damaging to the church. It requires canonical sanctions, and the church authorities are entitled to demand reparations. Those responsible must take full responsibility for the consequences, whether financial, civil or criminal." The archbishop said in the statement, dated Jan. 9, that canon law regulations allowed for "the Catholic Church's exercise of jurisdiction, management and administration over its affairs," and were recognized by the Polish government under the country's concordat with the Vatican. "Any unrestricted interpretation of obligatory church law, such as the claim that 'the church's opinion isn't relevant,' leads the faithful into error," the archbishop said.

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