Posted on 06/27/2005 3:24:15 PM PDT by Cincinna
Can you explain why "something latin excommunications" do not involve removing one from the membership of the church?
Just asking since I don't know how the Catholic church works. When our church excommunicates someone, after repentence, they have to re-apply for admission and be re-baptized and confirmed since they are not members for the period of excommunication.
No, according to Catholic canon law they cease to be members of the Church when they publicly adhere to another religion, which the "American Catholic Church in the United States" most definitely is.
A latae sententiae excommunication happens automatically. The Church doesn't need to recognize it, note it, record it, proclaim it, or anything else. Someone who, e.g., procures an abortion or ordains a bishop without Papal approval is excommunicated by the act itself.
However, these jokers are not just excommunicated, they aren't Catholics anymore, not even the excommunicate kind.
I think I understand, but it leaves lots of wiggle room. Kerry got some priest to give him the sacrament despite his obvious support for abortion. And he still pretends to be a good catholic likewise for Senator Chapaquidick.
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