Is it possible for a priest to also become a lawyer?
Yes, it is possible for a priest to become a lawyer. There are no legal restrictions preventing a priest from pursuing a law degree and taking the Bar exam. In fact, there have been cases of priests who also become lawyers to better serve their communities, particularly in matters involving legal advocacy, human rights, and social justice.
The Catholic Church's Canon Law does not explicitly prohibit priests from practicing law, as long as it does not interfere with their priestly duties. However, they may need permission from their superiors, such as their bishop, to undertake such a career path.
Similar to a priest in Sorsogon, who was among the 3,962 examinees that passed the 2024 Bar examinations.
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| Photo courtesy: Facebook/Diocese of Sorsogon |
In a congratulatory post on Friday, the Diocese of Sorsogon's Facebook page announced that Rev. Fr. Dean Simon Bayna Peña, JD, is now one of the country's new lawyers.
“Prayerful congratulations to the Rev. Dean Simon Bayna Peña for having passed the 2024 BAR Examinations 🙏🙏🙏 Fr. Atty. Simon, congratulations from all of us 💕,” it can be read on a Facebook post.
Meanwhile, there isn't much information or reports available about the identity of the priest from Sorsogon. Congrats, Father!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
