Questions and Answers about Alex Crow and the Laicization Process

August 16, 2023

What has Archbishop Rodi done regarding Alex Crow? When it became clear that Alex Crow had intended to abandon his assignment, Archbishop Rodi removed the faculties of Alex Crow. He has also ordered him, under his promise of obedience, to return home immediately.
What does it mean that his faculties have been removed? A faculty is the priest’s ability to function publicly as a priest. So that means Alex Crow is not able to function as a priest publicly. He cannot preach, publicly say Mass, do weddings or funerals, or even hear confessions, except if a person is in danger of death.
Was he defrocked? Defrocking is not a term of canon law.
What is canon law? Canon law is the law of the Church that developed over the Church’s 2000-year history. This law is for the Church and especially for ministers of the Church. It is not in conflict or competition with the civil laws of the state or country. It is mostly found in a book called The Code of Canon Law. Canon law seeks to restore justice and repair scandal.
What can happen next with canon law and Alex Crow? There is a process called laicization or dismissal from the clerical state.
Can Archbishop Rodi do this process himself? The simple answer is no. He has to assemble a panel of three priests who examine what happened. These three priests would be impartial and objective experts in canon law. This process can start six months after when Alex abandoned his assignment.
Why does it take so long? Canon law ensures that the rights of all parties are respected. The process also gives time for all the facts to be established. Finally, the process also gives everyone who needs to speak a chance to be heard.
Is Archbishop Rodi planning to pursue the dismissal of Alex Crow from the priesthood? Yes.