CHAPTER X: On Denunciation of Depraved Books

27. "Although it belongs to all Catholics, especially those who excel in doctrine, to denounce pernicious books to Bishops or to the Apostolic See; nevertheless this pertains by a special title to Nuncios, Apostolic Delegates, Ordinaries of places, and Rectors of Universities flourishing with the praise of doctrine."

Authors doubt whether a special precept is given by this article. Whatever the case, it is certain that those who preside over the people are held from justice by force of their office to denounce, but the faithful only from charity.

28. "It is expedient that in denunciation of depraved books not only the title of the book be indicated, but also, insofar as it can be done, the causes be set forth on account of which the book is considered worthy of censure. But to those to whom the denunciation is brought, it will be sacred to keep secret the names of those denouncing."

29. "Let Ordinaries, even as Delegates of the Apostolic See, strive to proscribe books and other harmful writings issued or spread in their Diocese, and to take them from the hands of the faithful. Let them bring to Apostolic judgment those works or writings which require a more subtle examination, or in which, to obtain a salutary effect, the sentence of supreme authority seems to be required."

Pennacchi wishes (A. S. S., 30, p. 407) exempt regulars to be bound by prohibitions made by Ordinaries; but the much more common opinion teaches that in this matter they are immune from the jurisdiction of the Bishop. Cf. Vermeersch (o. c., n. 64, p. 52), who strenuously champions this opinion.