Joinder of Actions and Conexio Causarum: A Comparative Analysis

This study aims to define the functional distinction between the joinder of actions and the connection of causes in procedural law. To avoid ambiguity, the term “identity” is used to denote the mere sharing of objective or subjective elements between two causes, reserving “connection” for its role as a title of jurisdiction.

The summa divisio lies in the foundation of competence: joinder always presupposes the original competence of the forum over all claims, configuring it as a mere discretionary faculty of the plaintiff. Conversely, connection acts as an instrument for the attraction of relative competence, allowing the forum to hear causes that would otherwise fall outside its jurisdiction. This mechanism, justified by procedural economy, is compulsory (not ad validitatem) when causes are linked by an objective identity, ensuring the consistency of judgments.

Keywords: Joinder of actions; Conexio Causarum; Competence.

The venerable right against self-incrimination — nemo tenetur prodere seipsum — has long been recognized in both canon law (cf. can. 1728 §2) and in secular juridical systems. In the current environment, however, a priest’s right to remain silent has been jeopardized, in practice, at least in the Church. This article discusses the basis for the right, examines its use outside of judicial processes (including preliminary investigations [cf. can. 1717]), and raises the question of whether an ecclesial version of the famous Miranda warning has become necessary, and the possible implications of its implementation.

Keywords: self-incrimination; can. 1728; Preliminary investigations; Miranda warning

Vigilance Over the Proper Administration of Justice. II. The Apostolic Signatura

This article draws upon the 2016 Circular Letter entitled Inter munera from the Apostolic Signatura (concerning the status and activities of tribunals) in order to describe the work of vigilance that this Supreme Tribunal undertakes regarding the proper administration of justice. This competency is examined both in a broad aspect (i.e. the promotion of the proper administration of justice) and in a narrow aspect (i.e. one that is characterized by inspection and discipline). The modalities and limits of this oversight are determined by the logic of subsidiarity (given that the diocesan bishop holds this same responsibility for vigilance within his own particular Church) as well as by the necessity of interventions called for by concrete circumstances that may be facing local tribunals.

Keywords: oversight; Apostolic Signatura; diocesan bishop.

Secundum probatum: the Recent Revision of the Discipline Concerning Holy Mass Intentions and Offering

This article analyzes the evolution of the discipline concerning Mass intentions and offerings, focusing on the decree Secundum probatum (2025). The central question examines how the Church currently addresses the challenges of clergy shortage while upholding justice and the piety of the faithful. The text outlines the transition from the decree Mos iugiter (1991) to a subsidiary model that, by emphasizing explicit consent and the role of Provincial Councils, counters abuses and opacity.

Keywords: Holy Mass intentions; Mass offerings; collective Masses; multi‑intention Masses; Mos iugiter Decree; Secundum probatum Decree.