Just as Pope Leo XIV promulgates laws for the Universal Catholic Church, a Diocesan Bishop also has the authority to promulgate laws for the Diocese entrusted to him. Referred to as “particular law,” the laws issued by a Diocesan Bishop help to order the proper functioning of a Diocese so that the rights and obligations of all the faithful are clearly articulated and safeguarded. This promotes the proper functioning of the local church so that its ministries can continue to bear fruit for the spread of the Gospel.
Since his arrival in Memphis, Bishop David P. Talley has recognized the need to update the particular laws, policies, and procedures of our Diocese to keep up with changing realities. He has also recognized the need for additional policies to ensure that the work of the Catholic Church is carried out properly and efficiently for the good of all the faithful. After much consultation and study with various offices of our Chancery and with our Diocese’s Presbyteral Council, new laws and procedures for our Diocese are now being promulgated.
Last week, several new Decrees were published on our Diocese’s Webpage containing Diocesan Laws and Procedures for:
— Safe Environment
— Catholic Cemeteries
— Life and Ministry of our Priests
In the near future, additional laws will be promulgated to regulate the proper financial administration of our parishes and the proper functioning of parish pastoral councils and finance councils. There will also be new Codes of Conduct for clergy, employees, and volunteers that make clear the expectations for conduct and safeguarding for all who take part in the Church’s ministry in our Diocese.
Please find the newly promulgated Diocesan Laws and Procedures here All are encouraged to visit this Diocese’s Webpage and learn about these new laws and procedures. Bishop Talley hopes that they will contribute to the further flourishing of our local Catholic Church now and into the future.