In canon law, what qualifies as a grave delict?

• A. A routine administrative error.
• B. A serious offense that can carry significant penalties; in sexual abuse context, central to accountability.
• C. A minor misdeed with light penalties.
• D. An offense outside canon law.

Answer: (B)

A grave delict in canon law is an offense of serious matter that is imputable to the offender and can be punished with significant canonical penalties. The emphasis is on the gravity of the act and the serious discipline it warrants, which is why accountability is a central concern, especially in cases like sexual abuse where safeguarding the faithful and integrity of church leadership are at stake. This distinguishes grave delicts from routine or minor faults, which carry lighter or no penalties, and from offenses outside canon law, which are not governed by canonical penalties.