On October 29, 2014, Monsignor Rudolf Michael Schmitz, Vicar General in the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest, presented his thesis in canon law with the title  “Essential Structure of the Canonical Life” at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. Monsignor was granted the doctorate in Canon Law by the University with the Summa Cum Laude mention.

Numerous prelates, canons of the Institute, priest and lay friends assistance at this thesis defense which describes in detail a subject of great importance for the Institute, since by its Constitutions the members of the Institute are called to live a fraternal life in common as secular canons (Constitutions N.1). Plans are being made for an English translation.  

The work of this thesis throughout the last several years was accomplished under the direction of Monsignor Valdrini, pro-Rector and Professor of Canon Law at the Lateran University.