Catholic-Orthodox Relations in Poland during the Pontificate of John Paul II

Abstract

The article is an attempt to analyze mutual relations of two biggest Churches in Poland: Catholic Church, which has had a historically and demographically dominant position, and the biggest minority Church — Polish Orthodox Church. The time of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II (1978–2005) was a period of intense inter-religious and ecumenical dialogue. There were many meetings among representatives of both Churches. On the basis of the reports from the above-mentioned meetings, statements of hierarchs of both Churches, and official documents, the author presents the history of mutual relations pointing out both hardships and successes in the ecumenical dialogue. One of the obstacles worth mentioning in the religious dialogue is Uniatism. It constituted the most relevant barrier for the dialogue in Poland. Antagonisms perpetuated throughout centuries have evoked negative emotions until now. However, theological problems were much easier to solve. There had been other successes achieved in this field: the agreement on theological understanding of sacraments, along with indicating the dominating role of the Eucharist, and the mutual recognition of baptisms. The Catholic-Orthodox dialogue in Poland placed in a wider international context of inter-religious relationships can be evaluated as burdened with difficulties but developing, with its historical peak during the pontificate of John Paul II. Despite the barriers which still exist, it has to be stated that many significant matters have already been solved. Numerous undertaken incentives have survived and have become a starting point for further efforts. However, favourable conditions are needed.