Autonomy of the monastery

25. The Church recognizes every monastery “sui iuris” as possessing legitimate juridical autonomy of life and government in order that it may have its own discipline and be capable of preserving intact its own heritage. (⁸²)

Autonomy favours stability of life and the internal unity of every community, and guarantees the best conditions for the exercise of contemplation.

This autonomy is a right of the monastery, which is autonomous by its own nature, and therefore cannot be restricted or diminished by external interventions. Autonomy does not however mean independence from ecclesiastical authority, but is just, right and opportune in order to protect the nature and proper identity of a monastery of wholly contemplative life.

The local Ordinary has the responsibility of preserving and safeguarding this autonomy. (⁸³)

The Diocesan Bishop, in monasteries entrusted to his supervision, (⁸⁴) or the regular Superior, where one exists, exercise their charge according to the laws of the Church and the Constitutions. These laws should indicate what falls within their competence, in particular with regard to presiding at elections, the canonical visitation and the administration of goods.

Since monasteries are autonomous and independent of one another, any form of coordination between them, with a view to the common good, requires the free accord of the monasteries themselves and the approval of the Holy See.