The Exercise of the Potestas Vicaria of the Roman Pontiff: Perfect and Harmonious Interaction of Fides, Ratio atque Ius

Abstract

: The juridical consequences of the canonical procedure for the dispensation from the natural and divine positive laws are directed to the dissolution of the natural and supernatural bond validly contracted either in marriage or in the religious profession. A supernatural power may dissolve both the natural and supernatural bonds through the exercise of the ‘ Potestas Vicaria’ of the Roman Pontiff who exercises it not as the Supreme Head of the Universal Catholic Church but in virtue of his prerogative as the “ Vicarius Christi ” on earth. The correct exercise of the divine power is based on theology and grounded in canonical science. Its right understanding and interpretation are harmonious employment of the metaphysical principles applied in theological and canon sciences. The author traces the theological foundation of the potestas vicaria in Sacred Scriptures and Sacred Traditions constantly interpreted and enriched by the Church living Magisterium. The ‘ potestas divina et vicaria’ exercise is based on the canonical provisions and praxis starting from the 7th century. The vicarious power exercised by the Church in the name of God is also referred to as ‘ Potestas Instrumentalis’ , i.e., Instrumental Power. A clearer understanding of the philosophy of this instrumental causality applied in theology and canon law implies a great deal of comprehension of some notion of causality proper of metaphysics. The employment