c. 838: 2017 Modification of the norms hitherto in force, regarding authorization of vernacular translations of liturgical texts and books [1]
The interpretation of the modified canon 838 is not clear; this suggests some uncertainty as regards its application in practice.
As it stands, the canon appears to indicate three levels or moments of "authorization". Moreover, two separate interventions of the Holy See seem clearly to be legislated for; one the "Recognition" ["recognoscere"] of drafts prepared by an Episcopal Conference; the other "Confirmation" - which appears as required before publication ["edere"] by the Episcopal Conference.
The difficulty arises in paragraph §3, especially when read in the light of paragraph §2. Let us look at both. [I append below my own provisional vernacular translation to English.]
La prélature personnelle de l'Opus Dei au service de la tâche de l'évangélisation de l'Église (Conférence, CEFA, Kinshasa, Novembre, 2007)
Justice and Transparency in Matrimonial Decisions Angelicum (Rome) vol. 89-1 (2012), pp. 223-244.
Cormac Burke, Judge of the Roman Rota, 1986-1999
[What follows could be considered a typical example of an inconclusive dialog; yet it may be of interest to some readers]
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From: ***. To: cburke@strathmore.ac.ke
Subject: Exclusion of indissolubility of marriage
19 June 2008
Dear Msgr. Burke,
I am writing to request your comments regarding the exclusion of indissolubility of marriage.
I am an atheist (baptized in the Roman Catholic Church) involved in a somewhat complicated relationship with a devout Roman Catholic woman. We have known each other for 15 years and would like to be together, however she insists on a Catholic marriage. Of course I could simply find a priest who will not ask me any uncomfortable questions or pretend that I have not stopped believing; however, I have decided to take the matter seriously and investigate whether I am actually able to contract a valid Catholic marriage.