Drafting particular law for Malta and Gozo : the operations of the Commission of the Maltese Episcopal Conference (1983-1988)

Abstract

When Pope John Paul II promulgated the new Code of Canon Law for the Latin Catholic Church on 25 January 1983, he left several matters that required local legislation for appropriate implementation. Some of these matters fell under the jurisdiction of diocesan bishops, while others necessitated the involvement of episcopal conferences or the attention of bishops within an ecclesiastical province. In response, the Maltese Episcopal Conference (MEC) established a special commission tasked with preparing particular legislation for the Church in Malta and Gozo and providing guidance to the local bishops. Following an overview of particular legislation within the Catholic Church, this article will shed light on the operations, diligent efforts, and one notable limitation of the Commission.