Code of Canon Law: text (original) (raw)
Can.435 An ecclesiastical province is presided over by a Metropolitan, who isArchbishop in his own diocese. The office of Metropolitan is linked to anepiscopal see, determined or approved by the Roman Pontiff.
Can.436 §1 Within the suffragan dioceses, the Metropolitan is competent:
1° to seethat faith and ecclesiastical discipline are carefully observed and to notifythe Roman Pontiff if there be any abuses;
2° for areason approved beforehand by the Apostolic See, to conduct a canonical visitation if the suffragan Bishop has neglected it;
3° toappoint a diocesan Administrator in accordance with cann. 421 §2 and 425 §3.
§2 Wherecircumstances require it, the Apostolic See can give the Metropolitan special functions and power, to be determined in particular law.
§3 TheMetropolitan has no other power of governance over suffragan dioceses. He can, however, celebrate sacred functions in all churches as if he were a Bishop in his own diocese, provided, if it is the cathedral church, the diocesan Bishophas been previously notified.
Can.437 §1 The Metropolitan is obliged to request the pallium from the Roman Pontiff, either personally or by proxy, within three months of his episcopal consecration or, if he has already been consecrated, of his canonical appointment. The pallium signifies the power which, in communion with the Roman Church, the Metropolitan possesses by law in his own province.
§2 TheMetropolitan can wear the pallium, in accordance with the liturgical laws, in any church of the ecclesiastical province over which he presides, but notoutside the province, not even with the assent of the diocesan Bishop.
§3 If theMetropolitan is transferred to another metropolitan see, he requires a new pallium.
Can.438 The title of Patriarch or Primate gives a prerogative of honour, but in thelatin Church does not carry with it any power of governance, except in certain matters where an apostolic privilege or approved custom establishes otherwise.