Capítulo General de 2020
General Chapter
What is a General Chapter?
Canon 631 § 1 of the Code of Canon Law states
“The General Chapter, which holds the supreme authority in the institute according to the constitutions, must be constituted in such a way that, representing the entire institute, it is a true sign of its unity in charity. It is primarily responsible for defending the institute’s heritage and ensuring its adaptation and renewal in accordance with it, electing the Superior General, addressing the most important matters, and issuing norms that are binding for all” (Code of Canon Law, c. 631 § 1).
“The General Chapter, representing the entire Congregation, must be a sign and action of its unity in charity. It holds the supreme authority over the Congregation, in accordance with universal law and proper law” (Constitutions of the Legion of Christ, n. 124).
“Ordinary Chapter” and “Extraordinary Chapter”
129 § 1. The General Chapter can be ordinary or extraordinary. It is ordinary when convened, according to the established periodicity, at the end of the mandate of the general director. It is extraordinary in other cases.
§ 2. To convene an extraordinary non-elective General Chapter, the general director must have the consent of his Council and have heard the opinion of the territorial directors.
Competences
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To examine the situation of the Congregation and the most important matters that have been proposed by the territorial assemblies and, individually, by the members of the Congregation.
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To elect the General Director, the General Councillors, and the General Administrator, if the Chapter is elective.
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To take the most appropriate measures to safeguard the spirit of the Congregation, promote its development and proper renewal, advance the fulfillment of its mission, address challenges, and resolve the most important difficulties.
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If applicable, to make the necessary modifications to the Constitutions, which must be presented for approval by the Holy See; to modify or approve the secondary codes of the proper law within its competence; and to issue guidelines through capitular decrees.