I missionari della misericordia “strumento privilegiato” della sollecitudine e dell’attenzione della Chiesa per il perdono

Abstract

The contribution examines the current canonical framework of the Missionaries of Mercy. The essential task of the Missionaries concerns the personal expression of the Church’s closeness and motherhood through the ministry of preaching and the celebration of the sacrament of reconciliation. The most proper function of the Missionaries of Mercy regards the remission of reserved sins. However, the meaning of the pontifical mandate (the promotion and care of mercy in Christian communities) goes beyond the aspect of powers (the special faculties granted to them). The support of the Dicastery also aims to promote the qualification and the pastoral character of the Missionaries. The mechanism of designation and the mode of service emphasizes the harmony of the papal initiative with the episcopal body. The wish for an even greater presence and distribution of the Missionaries of Mercy is combined with that of promoting the quality and attractiveness of penitential practice.