El derecho-deber de vigilancia del obispo diocesano sobre las asociaciones laicales con personalidad jurídica canónica privada

The diocesan bishop plays a fundamental role in ecclesiastical organization, which involves the pastoral care of part of the people of God, and whose jurisdiction encompasses a number of facets. This article analyzes some aspects of the authority of the diocesan bishop in relation to private associations of the Christian faithful constituted as juridical persons under canon law – and, in particular, the bishop’s right and duty to exercise vigilance. In exercising their power over such institutions, the bishop must balance the legitimate independence of each association with the unity of the particular church. The bishop’s supervision extends beyond ensuring that it conforms to the established order: the bishop’s action is a loving pastoral concern that Christian life may flourish within such associations.