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The Accord betuieen the Holy See and the Republic oj Croatia on Economic Questions
Nikola Eterović
Abstract
In the commentary of the Accord betiveen the Holy See and the Republic of Croatia on Economic Questions, the main principles of the Accord stipulated betvveen the Holy See and the Republic of Croatia on October 9, 1998, are examined. A brief description is provided of the development of some articles in order to provide a better understanding of their significance.
The Accord stresses the importance of providing a regular method of financial assistance to the Catholic Church in the Republic of Croatia (art.l). Added to this are new regulations, of which two are especiallv important:
1. regarding the restitution, exchanging or financial compensation of properties confiscated during the former communist regime which the Government cannot restore or exchange (art.3 - 5);
2. regarding annual financial subsidies which the Republic of
Croatia shall transfer to the Croatian Bishops Conference in recognition of the good public contributions provided through the works of the Catholic Church in the service of the public in the areas of culture, society, education, ethics and charity (art.6 - 9). An analysis of the text clearly shows that the Accord is based upon the norms of the Constitution and the laws of the Republic of Croatia, as well as upon the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and Canon Law. The implementation of the Accord presents a particular challenge to the Church and the State. It provides the Republic of Croatia an opportunity to remedy the injustices of the past, to establish the rule of law and justice, while guaranteeing the conditions for the normal activities of the Catholic Church within a democratic society. On the other hand, it gives the Catholic Church an opportunity to enhance its social activities, especially in the areas of charity, while providing a system of financial assistance for priests and other employees of the Church, according to the teachings of Vatican II, in a true špirit of evangelical poverty, justice and Church unity.
Keywords
Holy See, Republic of Croatia; Economic Questions
Hrčak ID:
48165
URI
Publication date:
21.3.1999.
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