increased if we acquaint ourselves with the method they follow in carrying out their task. This method was outlined by Pope Benedict XIV in 1753 in his bull, Sollicita ac Provida for the Holy Office and the then existing Index Congregation. With the exception of a few slight differences suggested by the Order of Business adopted in each of the two Congregations, it is the same for both. The Holy Office proceeds in the following way.
There is regularly a session on Monday comprising only those members of the Congregation who are not Cardinals, in order to deliberate about the matters to be proposed to the latter. The Cardinals hold their meeting on Wednesday, and in this session the final step is decided upon. But the decree of the Cardinals must still be reported to the Pope, without whose consent no verdict of any Congregation may be published.
Now when there is the question of the condemnation of a book, it is first handed to one of the consultors, who must study and examine it carefully. He must draw up a
