Legal Definitions - sede plena

Sede plena is a historical Latin term that translates to "the see being filled." Primarily used in ecclesiastical law, it indicated that a bishopric—the administrative district or office of a bishop—was not vacant but was actively occupied by an appointed bishop. Essentially, it confirmed that the leadership position within that religious jurisdiction was currently held and operational.

• Example 1: Imagine a royal decree from the 14th century granting specific lands and tithes to a cathedral. The decree might include a clause stating that these endowments are to be managed by the bishop "while the see is sede plena."

  Explanation: This illustrates sede plena by confirming that the grants and their management are contingent upon the bishopric having an active, legitimate leader. If the see were vacant, the administration of these assets might be temporarily suspended or handled by an interim authority, but the "sede plena" clause ensures the provisions apply under normal, active leadership.

• Example 2: During a period of political upheaval, a local assembly needed the formal endorsement of the regional bishop to legitimize a new set of civic ordinances. Historical records might note that the bishop's approval was secured "sede plena" on a particular date.

  Explanation: Here, sede plena signifies that the bishop's office was actively occupied at the time of the endorsement, meaning the approval was granted by the fully authorized and legitimate ecclesiastical leader, not by a temporary administrator or during a period of vacancy, thus lending full legal and spiritual weight to the ordinances.

• Example 3: A medieval will might stipulate that a significant sum of money be used for the upkeep of a monastic library, with the condition that the funds be disbursed under the direct supervision of the local bishop "as long as the see remains sede plena."

  Explanation: This example demonstrates sede plena by making the disbursement and oversight of the endowment dependent on the continuous presence of an active bishop. It ensures that the funds are managed by the established, legitimate authority rather than falling into administrative limbo during a vacancy, thereby safeguarding the donor's intentions.