Code of Canon Law, Latin Codex Juris Canonici, official compilation of ecclesiastical law promulgated in 1917 and again, in revised form, in 1983, for Roman Catholics of the Latin rite. The code obliges Roman Catholics of Eastern rites only when it specifically refers to them or clearly applies to all Roman Catholics.

When did Canon Law start?

The first Code of Canon Law (1917) was almost exclusively for the Latin Church, with extremely limited application to the Eastern Churches. After the Second Vatican Council (1962 - 1965), another edition was published specifically for the Roman Rite in 1983.

When was Canon Law last updated?

Before Pope John Paul II, the last time the entire Code of Canon Law had been revamped was in 1917 — so by 1983, it was necessary to overhaul the system once again.