Canon law conference considers complex issues

More than 100 people gathered for the society’s 59th annual conference in North Sydney from August 31 to September 3. 

CLSANZ president Fr Paul Clark said he was delighted with the conference and especially with the number of participants including members and guests from Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, Fiji, UK, Canada, USA, Hong Kong and Guam.

“The Canon Law Society holds a unique place in the Church, especially for the local Churches of Australia, New Zealand and Pasifika. Our annual conference provides an invaluable opportunity to renew friendships, share our practical experience of the law and explore how canon law serves the life and mission of the Church today,” he said.

Fr Frank Brennan SJ opened the conference with his reflections on Sir Gerard Brennan and Sir William Deane, two significant Catholic jurists, and their contribution to public discourse in Australia, especially in regard to the rights of indigenous Australians.

Dr Diane Barr, president of the Canon Law Society of America and chancellor of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, offered her insights on the experience of the bankruptcy provisions employed by a number of dioceses and Church entities in the United States.

Dr Barr explored how US dioceses have sought to achieve fair legal settlements for claims related to allegations of historical child sexual abuse by clergy and adults acting on behalf of the Church.

She emphasised the importance of ensuring the pastoral care of the whole community of the Church and the desire for justice when pursuing the civil law options available to the Church.

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Canon Law conference tackles modern challenges (CLSANZ)