The Church Tribunals of the Maltese Ecclesiastical Province celebrated the inauguration of the Judicial Year on Wednesday 15th January 2020, at the Archbishop’s Palace, Valletta.
The keynote Lectio Magistralis was delivered by Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna and examined the promulgation and reception of Pope Francis’ legislative document: Vos estis lux mundi (You are the Light of the World). This document which came into effect on 1st June 2019 set out new procedural norms, applicable to the whole Catholic Church, aimed at combating sexual abuse (especially that of minors and vulnerable adults) and ensuring that bishops and religious superiors are held accountable for their actions.
The three Judicial Vicars of the Maltese province also gave their contributions about the Regional Tribunal of Appeals, The Metropolitan Tribunal of Malta and the Diocesan Tribunal of Gozo. The Judicial Vicars updated those present about the work their Tribunals carried out during the calendar year 2019. In this way, in accordance with the wishes of Pope Francis, the Tribunals are more transparent and accountable in their work. The Judicial Vicars also expressed their gratitude to all the members of staff of the Tribunals, and all collaborators who serve the People of God in this most delicate and necessary field.