Bengaluru: The Canon Law Commission of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) on May 5, 2026, unveiled a major reference work aimed at strengthening the governance and pastoral care of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. The scientific guidebook, Canon Law for Consecrated Life, was released during the CCBI’s 99th Executive Committee meeting.
The first copies were ceremonially presented by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao and Cardinal Anthony Poola and received by Archbishop S. Antonysamy, chairman of the Canon Law Commission and Archbishop of Madurai, alongside other CCBI officials. The volume is scholarly edited by Rev. Prof. Merlin Rengith Ambrose, secretary of the Commission.
The book synthesises discussions and canonical reflections that emerged from the National Conference for Superiors General, Provincials and Councillors held in Bengaluru from November 13–15, 2025. Drawing on contributions from canon law scholars and bishops, it aims to bridge theory and practice by offering clear guidance on the canonical framework that governs religious life in India.
Key topics covered include leadership and governance structures in religious institutes, administration of temporal goods, formation of candidates, synodality in authority, juridical establishment of institutes, and procedures related to separation of members. The volume addresses specific canonical processes such as leave of absence, exclaustration, transfer, departure and dismissal, and clarifies relationships between diocesan bishops and religious congregations.
Rooted in theological reflection and canonical precision, the guide underscores the balance between law, charism, accountability and pastoral care. According to the Commission, the book aims to equip major superiors, provincials, formators and canon lawyers with practical tools to navigate contemporary challenges within consecrated life.
Published by the CCBI and distributed by ATC Publishers, the volume carries a foreword by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, who highlights its importance for reinforcing governance, communion and service in religious life. The publication is positioned as both an academic reference and a practical manual for Provincials, Superiors General, councillors, seminarians, formators and members of religious and secular institutes across India and beyond.
Copies of Canon Law for Consecrated Life are available for order online at the distributor’s website or via the contact numbers provided by the publishers.
Book Ordering Information
Copies of Canon Law for Consecrated Life may be ordered through:
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