Article 28

It is expedient that in the denunciation of bad 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 judged worthy of censure. But to those to whom the denunciation is referred, it will be sacred to preserve secret the names of the denouncers.

Summary of the article

101. 1. By this article counsel is given that those who refer a book should indicate the causes on account of which the book seems to be disapproved, noting, for example, suspect places.

Promise of secrecy

2. Lest the faithful be slowed by fear of revelation, or, with their own name suppressed, greatly detract from the force of the indication, security is promised to them while the office of preserving the secret names of those referring is inculcated.

They know by how strict an obligation of sworn secrecy the members or consultors of the Sacred Congregations are bound.