Presbyteral Council

The Presbyteral Council or Council of PriestsCode of Canon Law, canons 495-501 is a group of priests chosen to assist the local ordinary in an advisory capacity in the governance of the diocese. Canon 495 of the Code of Canon Law lays down that every diocese must have such a council. The council addresses matters concerning the pastoral welfare of the people of God in the local church.Canon 495 §1
About half of the members of the council are freely elected by the priests. The others have membership either because of a position that they hold (ex officio) or because nominated by the bishop.Canon 497
It is for the bishop to decide when to consult the council, to preside over the meeting and to determine the agenda, whether the items for inclusion are his own initiative or are proposed by some member of the council.Canon 500 §1
In the case of a sede vacante the council ceases to exist, and its functions are taken over by the college of consultors.Can. 501 §2
==References==
==See also==
*Bishop
*Ordinary
Category:Canon law (Catholic Church)