An Agreement Between the Church and the Spanish Monarchy is Called Concordat
When it comes to the relationship between the church and the state, there have been various agreements reached over the centuries. In Spain, an agreement between the church and the monarchy is called a “concordat.”
A concordat is a formal agreement between the Holy See (the Vatican) and a sovereign state that defines the relationship between the Catholic Church and that country`s government. It covers issues related to church properties and personnel, and outlines the role of the church in the country`s affairs.
The first concordat between the Spanish monarchy and the Holy See was signed in 1753, during the reign of King Ferdinand VI. This agreement was followed by others in 1851, 1884, 1953, and 1979.
The concordat of 1851, signed by Queen Isabella II, established the Catholic Church as the official religion of Spain. It gave the church control over marriage and education, and allowed the clergy to be exempt from military service and taxation.
During the 20th century, the role of the church in Spain`s affairs became a subject of debate and controversy. The concordat of 1953, signed by General Francisco Franco, gave the church even greater power and influence, which led to criticism from secularists and liberal factions in Spanish society.
After the death of Franco in 1975, Spain underwent a process of democratization, with a new constitution being enacted in 1978. This constitution established a secular state and limited the power of the church.
The concordat of 1979, signed under King Juan Carlos I, reflected the new reality of Spain as a secular state. It abolished the Catholic Church`s monopoly on marriage and education, and recognized the right of other religions to exist and worship freely in Spain.
In recent years, some have called for the repeal or renegotiation of the concordat, arguing that it gives the Catholic Church undue influence and privileges in Spanish society. However, the church and the Spanish government have reaffirmed their commitment to the agreement.
In conclusion, a concordat is an agreement between the church and the Spanish monarchy that defines their relationship and outlines the role of the church in Spain`s affairs. Over the centuries, these agreements have reflected the changing balance of power between the church and the state, as well as the evolving values and beliefs of Spanish society.