Archbishop Randazzo says canon law must serve Gospel

Archbishop Anthony Randazzo stated that canon law must remain grounded in the Gospel to serve the mission and communion of the Church. In his first interview since becoming the head of the Vatican Dicastery for Legislative Texts, Randazzo told the journal Vox Canonica that the law exists to serve the Gospel and that Christ must remain the Church's constant point of reference.

The former Bishop of Broken Bay was appointed prefect of the dicastery by Pope Leo XIV on March 25, receiving the personal title of archbishop. The dicastery assists the pope with his legislative authority and ensures Church laws are interpreted and applied correctly.

Randazzo said he prefers the term regeneration over reform to describe a return to the origins of Christian identity and mission. He noted that while terms like synodality and accompaniment are contemporary, the Latin and Eastern codes already provide legal structures for participation and the dignity of the baptized. He also argued that proper application of canon law is not in opposition to sound pastoral care.