Vatican Reaffirms Restriction on Public Preaching by Non-Ordained Individuals
Vatican City – The Vatican has reiterated a longstanding policy, confirming that only a newly ordained priest or deacon may deliver sermons during Catholic masses. This decision effectively ends a previously contested interpretation regarding who can preach to a congregation, specifically addressing concerns raised by German bishops regarding the ability to preach to women or other lay individuals. The clarification stems from established canon law, which dictates that the role of preaching within a mass is reserved for those undergoing the immediate process of ordination.
This maintains a distinction between the clergy and the broader Catholic community during liturgical services. The announcement follows a recent ceremony held within the San Damaso Courtyard at the Vatican, where new recruits to the Swiss Guard were formally sworn in. The event, a tradition commemorating the 147 Swiss Guards who died defending Pope Clement VII in 1527 during the Sack of Rome, was postponed this year due to coronavirus restrictions.
The Vatican continues to uphold its established protocols regarding public preaching, ensuring consistency within the Catholic Church’s liturgical practices.
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