§ 2. On The Nature And Necessity Of Jurisdiction

1748. I. JURISDICTION, in general, is the power of ruling subjects (cf. n. 138). - Sacramental jurisdiction, of which we are here treating, is the power of absolving or binding subjects in the Tribunal of penance.

Jurisdiction is one thing ordinary, another delegated. - ORDINARY is that which comes to someone by reason of the office itself, to which it is annexed by ordinary law; DELEGATED, that which is legitimately granted to someone by him in whom the ordinary jurisdiction resides.

II. For VALIDLY receiving confessions, the power of Order does not suffice, but the power of JURISDICTION is REQUIRED, whether ordinary or delegated. - This is established from Trent, sess. 14, cap. 7: "Since therefore the nature and character of judgment demands that sentence be pronounced only upon subjects, it was always held as persuaded in the Church of God, and this Synod confirms it to be most true, that the absolution which a priest pronounces upon him over whom he does not have ordinary or subdelegated jurisdiction ought to be of no moment."