What is jurisdiction, and what distinguishes ordinary from delegated jurisdiction?

• A. Jurisdiction is the power to interpret canon law; ordinary is for priests; delegated is for lay tribunals
• B. Jurisdiction is the power to apply canon law; ordinary jurisdiction rests in bishops and major superiors; delegated jurisdiction is delegated by law to others (e.g., judicial vicars, vicars general)
• C. Jurisdiction is the ability to enforce laws; ordinary is temporary; delegated is permanent
• D. Jurisdiction is the practice of catechesis; ordinary vs delegated concerns liturgical roles

Answer: (B)

Jurisdiction is the Church’s official power to act under canon law within a defined scope—essentially to govern, decide, and apply the norms in those circumstances.

Ordinary jurisdiction is the authority that belongs to someone by virtue of their office, specifically bishops and major superiors. They exercise this power as part of their normal, day-to-day governance of their jurisdiction.

Delegated jurisdiction is the authority entrusted by law to others to act on the ordinary’s behalf. This means figures like judicial vicars or vicars general can carry out acts or decisions within defined limits, under the ordinary’s delegation, without the ordinary having to handle every matter personally.

So the difference rests on where the power resides: ordinary jurisdiction sits by office, while delegated jurisdiction is granted to others to assist or act for the ordinary. The other options mix in incorrect elements—such as limiting jurisdiction to interpretation, tying it to enforcement in a way that isn’t defining, or stretching it to catechesis—which doesn’t fit how canon law structures authority.