TITLE 9

Assemblies of Hierarchs of Several Churches Sui Iuris

Canon 322

1. When it seems opportune in the judgment of the Apostolic

See, patriarchs, metropolitans of metropolitan Churches sui

iuris, eparchial bishops, and, if the statutes so establish,

other local hierarchs of various Churches sui iuris, even the

Latin, exercising their authority in the same nation or region,

are to be assembled at stated times for periodic assemblies by

the patriarch or another authority designated by the Apostolic

See in order that communicating the insights of prudence and experience, taking counsel together, the hierarchs work in accord

as much as possible for the common good of the Churches, through

which unity of action is fostered, common endeavors are facilitated, the good of religion is expeditiously promoted and ecclesiastical discipline is efficaciously preserved. 2. The decisions of this assembly do not have juridically binding force unless they deal with things which in no way can be prejudicial to

the rite of each and every Church sui iuris or to the authority

of the patriarchs, synods, metropolitans and councils of hierarchs, and at the same time are passed by at least two-thirds of

those members enjoying deliberative vote as well as approved by

the Apostolic See. 3. A decision, even if passed by unanimous

vote, which in any way whatever exceeds the competence of the assembly lacks all force until it has been approved by the Roman

Pontiff himself. 4. Each and every assembly of hierarchs of

several Churches sui iuris is to draw up its own statutes in

which is fostered, insofar as possible, even participation of

hierarchs of Churches which are not yet in full communion with

the Catholic Church. The statutes, to be valid, must be approved

by the Apostolic See.