INTERPRETER. — Even in the present canonical system, the ancient juridical institution of the interpreter retains its importance, particularly with regard to the Sacrament of Penance. This practice was widely and peacefully used in the Middle Ages, as evidenced by St. Thomas Aquinas’ *Summa Theologica*, and underwent some adjustments in certain papal constitutions (Clement IX, *In excelsa*, 13 Sept. 1669, and earlier, Alexander VIII, *Sacrosancti apostolatus*, 18 Jan. 1658), reaching its definitive formulation in the decree of the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda Fide dated 6 Sept. 1630, in response to a doubt raised by the Patriarch of Constantinople.
The *Codex Iuris Canonici* (can. 903) permits the free use of an interpreter for the Sacrament of Penance. The qualities required of the interpreter in this case are not specified by the *CIC*; therefore, any person capable of fulfilling this role may be chosen, provided there is moral certainty of the observance of the sacramental seal, as prescribed by the same canon and confirmed by can. 889 §2, while avoiding abuses (such as unnecessary use, improper selection of place and time, etc.) and scandals. A method commended by moralists is to have the interpreter stand with his back to the penitent, repeat the confessor’s questions to him, and receive affirmative or negative responses from the penitent. This arrangement better ensures the observance of the sacramental seal, which is also enforced with penalties established in can. 2369 §2, proportionate to the gravity of the offense and which may even reach excommunication.
The use of an interpreter is also permitted in the celebration of Matrimony, according to can. 1090, which refers to ancient law in this regard. This may occur when the contracting parties (or one of them) are entirely ignorant of the language in which they might be questioned by the parish priest and understood by the witnesses, or when they are deaf-mutes. However, the licit use of an interpreter in this case is subject to the fulfillment of the conditions prescribed by can. 1091: there must be a true necessity for celebrating the marriage in this manner; there must be no doubt regarding the fidelity of the interpreter; and, where time permits, prior permission from the Ordinary must be obtained. This is a general law applicable throughout the Church, without spatial limitations.
Finally, the use of an interpreter may also be required in procedural matters, both in general procedure (can. 1641) and in special procedure governing causes of beatification and canonization (can. 2037 §3). In the former case, the interpreter must take an oath, as is also required by certain civil legislations, be appointed by the judge, and be beyond any legitimate exception that the parties might raise against him.