The existing sanctions on Bishop Novell do not exclude “other possible consequences that could canonically follow,” Bishop Casanova added.
Bishop Casanova indicated that the sanctions imposed on Bishop Novell mean that “although maintaining his state as a bishop, he cannot perform any of the functions that derive from that state.”
“Among others, the administration of the sacraments and any teaching activity, both public and private, is prohibited,” he said.
Those who are in holy orders invalidly attempt marriage, as do those bound by the bond of a prior marriage. A cleric who attempts marriage can be punished, even by dismissal from the clerical state.
Bishop Novell resigned Aug. 23 citing “strictly personal reasons.” The diocese announced that the decision was made freely and in accord with a canon which asks that a bishop “who has become less able to fulfill his office because of ill health or some other grave cause … present his resignation from office.”
Various media broke the news Sept. 5 that Bishop Novell moved to Manresa to live with Caballol, 38, a psychologist and author of erotic novels with satanic overtones, some of them restricted to those 18 or older.
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