On 28 November 2023, UM academic Rev. Dr Kevin Schembri from the Faculty of Theology delivered a public lecture at the Institute of Canon Law at the University of Münster, Germany, focusing on Pope Francis' reforms in the marriage nullity process. The presentation, titled Streamlining Marriage Annulments: Mitis Iudex and Processus Brevior in Action at the Maltese Metropolitan Tribunal, drew a diverse audience, including Prof. Emeritus Klaus Ludicke, lecturers and students from the Institute, theology and law students, and members of the ecclesiastical tribunal of the Diocese of Münster.
The following day, Schembri was invited to the ecclesiastical tribunal of the Diocese of Münster for an official meeting with the judicial vicar, judges, and defenders of the bond. The engaging discussion, lasting over two hours, centred on the practical implementation of Mitis Iudex Dominus Iesus, addressing various themes related to procedures at ecclesiastical tribunals, particularly those involving marriage cases.
Schembri was invited to Münster and warmly welcomed by the Chair of Canon Law, Professor Dr Thomas Schüller, his assistant, Dr Thomas Neumann, and doctoral candidate Julia Klesel. The event facilitated an exchange of knowledge and expertise and emphasised the significance of dialogue between academics and professional practitioners. It also showcased collaboration between different academic institutions, building on the preceding visit by scholars and students from the University of Münster to the Faculty of Theology at the University of Malta in May 2023.
