Theology and Canon Law. Reflections from Theology

While theology and canon law have much in common, some degree of mutual misunderstanding is not unheard of. Theologians are wary of excessively legalistic approaches to Christian reality among canon lawyers. The latter, in turn, are suspicious of 'pastoral sensitivities' in the interpretation of laws by theologians, which may compromise justice or the rights of the faithful. This article explores the issues from a theological point of view and reflects critically on four aspects that affect both theology and canon law: object, systematicity, normativity and the principle of autonomy. Finally, it presents a potential intersection point for theology and canon law in how salus animarum is understood.