ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the role of the Apostolic Penitentiary in defining and controlling the quality of priestly candidates and, on the ecclesiastical ordinations carried out in the Camera apostolica. It explains the regulations of canon law regarding ordination and the quality of ordained persons. The book describes how clerical ordinations were carried out in practice and how an unsuitable candidate for the priesthood could obtain a dispensation that allowed him to be ordained. It also focuses on the role of the papal curia in defining who could assume clerical status and who could not. The book concentrates on the examinations and actual ordinations of the clergy that were carried out at the Roman curia, more particularly at the Apostolic Chamber, Camera apostolica. It presents a comprehensive survey of ordinations at the Roman curia and how they were carried out.
