The apostolic nuncio in the Czech Republic, Msgr. Erwin Josef Ender, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Cyril Svoboda, signed “the accord on the regulation of reciprocal relations” at a ceremony in Prague on 25 July. The accord, which will come into force, as is usual, after its ratification by both contractual parties, regulates the juridical position of the Catholic Church and her institutions in the Czech Republic. Thus, the civil validity of canonical marriage is recognized. It is also recognized that the Church may freely establish and administer works of charity, in conformity with the civil legislation. Recognized Catholic schools, of every grade, are accorded equal status with public schools, with the same rights and duties. The teaching of religion in state schools is also regulated, and measures taken to develop collaboration between Church and State in the safeguard of the cultural heritage. The two parties, lastly, pledge to solve the still outstanding problems concerning the real estate of the Church as soon as possible.
