Recently, a female Anglican minister participated in the installation Mass of Archbishop Odelir José Magri in Chapecó, Brazil.
The February 9 Mass at St. Anthony’s Cathedral marked the establishment of the new Archdiocese of Chapecó and also the appointment of Archbishop Magri.
Reports and video indicate that De Oliveira processed with the clergy, remained in the sanctuary and engaged in parts of the Mass reserved for Catholic priests. She was seen wearing a white alb and a blue stole, a vestment typical of ordained clergy. During his homily, the archbishop acknowledged De Oliveira’s presence and referred to her participation as a sign of ecumenical unity.
Afterwards, the Archdiocese of Chapecó released a statement describing De Oliveira’s participation as an “isolated incident of inadvertent violation of liturgical norms.” Archbishop Magri confirmed that he had reported the matter to the Apostolic Nunciature in Brazil.
The Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil issued a congratulatory message to the new archbishop, expressing hope for continued collaboration in Christian unity.
Canon 908 of the Code of Canon Law prohibits Catholic priests from concelebrating the Eucharist with ministers of communities not in full communion with the Church. Canon 844 further restricts the administration and reception of sacraments to Catholics.
No further comments have been made by the Vatican regarding the incident as of yet.
Photo credit: Replay VÃdeo TV Brasil, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
