The Office of the Chancellor for Canonical Affairs assists the Diocesan Bishop by notarizing official documents of the Bishop, by maintaining the diocesan archives, overseeing files of priests, and by providing clearance for visiting clergy, religious and lay presenters who wish to supply sacramental services, offer parish missions or to provide presentations to the faithful of the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

Diocesan statistical reports for the annual Official Catholic Directory, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and for the Roman Curia are also the responsibilities of the Chancellor for Canonical Affairs’ Office.

The appointment of a Chancellor is required for every diocesan curia, in accordance with canon 482 of the Code of Canon Law. A Chancellor may be either a member of the clergy or laity, according to the norm of canon 228.

In January 2021, responsibilities for the Propagation of the Faith, including the Missionary Cooperation Plan (MCP) and oversight of the annual World Mission Sunday were given to the Chancellor for Canonical Affairs’ Office. A link to all Propagation of the Faith resources is also included on this page.