What can one expect to find in the Code of Canon Law?

The Code of Canon Law (1983) can be described as a mini-library of sorts. It is divided into seven different books, each dealing with a specific subject matter. The previous Code of 1917 was divided into five books and dealt with General Norms, Persons, Things, Procedures, Crimes and Punishments. Using the theology and language of Vatican II, the present Code concentrates on the triple-function of the Church in terms of Teaching, Sanctifying and Governing. In Book One can be found what are known as General Norms. In two-hundred and three canons the subject matter deals with terms, persons, tools and structures found throughout the other canonical books. This book is a key to understanding the very background of Church Law. Book Two takes its title from Vatican II’s image of the Church as People of God. Within the covers of this book can be found the basic constitution of the Church. In five hundred and forty two canons topics such as rights and obligations, the Christian faithful, the hierarchy, religious, universal, diocesan and parish structures go to make up this most important book of the Code. The Teaching Office of the Church is the main theme of Book Three. In eighty six canons, topics such as the Ministry of the Word, Catechetical Formation, Missionary Activity, Catholic Education, Social Communication and the Profession of Faith are dealt with. In Book Four are to be found those canons dealing with The Sanctifying Office of the Church. Four hundred and nineteen canons are devoted to the sacraments, sacramentals, sacred places and sacred times. The shortest Book of the Code of Canon Law is Book Five, entitled Temporal Goods of the Church. Here are found the rules and regulations guiding the acquisition, administration and alienation of Church funds and property. In addition, canons on wills and bequests are included. In eighty-eight canons, Book Six deals with Sanctions in the Church. The final book in the 1983 Code of Canon Law deals with Procedural Law in the Church. Entitled Processes, Book Seven outlines in three hundred and fifty two canons, the processes to be employed in Church Tribunals. These Tribunals most often deal with marriage nullity cases as well as other administrative processes.