Connecting the Diocese

Understanding the Diocesan Tribunal: Insights from Father Alan Guanella
Join Clint Berge on ‘Connecting the Diocese’ as he sits down with Father Alan Guanella, the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of La Crosse. In this episode, Father Guanella offers a deep dive into the often unseen work of the Diocesan Tribunal. The discussion covers the tribunal’s roles, its importance in matters of church law and pastoral care, and the intricate legal and spiritual processes involved in declaring the nullity of marriages. Father Guanella also shares his personal journey from parish pastor to Judicial Vicar, his canon law studies, and the pastoral care embedded in church law. The episode also touches on the power of the rosary and offers reflections from St. Francis de Sales on marriage. Tune in to explore the compassionate and judicial sides of church law and discover how the tribunal’s work aligns with the Church’s mission of mercy and truth.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:02 Exploring the Diocesan Tribunal
01:38 Father Alan Guanella’s Journey
02:08 Understanding Canon Law
03:56 Role of the Judicial Vicar
06:08 Canon Law in Practice
10:08 Differences Between Secular and Canonical Courts
13:22 Competency and Precedent in Church Courts
17:25 Promulgation of Law in the Diocese
19:16 Tips for Praying the Rosary
24:38 Canon Lawyers in the Diocese
28:25 Healing and Reconciliation in the Parish
29:27 Understanding the Marriage Nullity Process
31:30 The Role of the Defender of the Bond
33:38 Supporting Marriages in the Church
35:58 Misconceptions About Annulments
37:38 The Importance of Consent in Marriage
47:37 Canon Law and Pastoral Care
56:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaway Message