Abstract
The fall of the Communist government gave rise not only to changes in the political, economic, and social realm of Poland but also came to exert an impact on the country’s religious character. Statistical data, especially that collected over the last five years, indicate changes in the religious character of Polish society. This is manifested in a decreasing number of individuals attending Sunday Mass and an increasing number of individuals receiving Holy Communion. Other developments noted in recent years include changes in the number of baptisms and seminarians studying to become priests. The opening of national borders and new limits on government control over Roman Catholic Church activity as well as the actions of other denominations created an atmosphere conducive to a reconnection with like‑minded individuals abroad. International religious meetings became an option with foreign religious denominations now faced with an opportunity to perform missionary work in Poland. Poland’s decision to pursue membership in the European Union (EU) stirred up a heated social debate. The Roman Catholic Church was in favor of joining the EU, however, some individuals in both institutional and lay circles had some reservations regarding that decision. <b>Sekularizace a sakralizace. Nová polarizace religiózní krajiny v Polsku v kontextu globalizace a evropské integrace</b>
Highlights
Poland was one of the few countries in the so‐called Eastern Bloc (1945–1989) where most churches and denominations, while under government surveillance, were able to function to some extent
The religious value statements that Poles make are not consistent with the their everyday behaviors, which often depart from the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church
Prior to departing Balice airport, he once again voiced his support for integration with the following words: “I do hope that Polish society will continue to nurture the values that make it European and will find its place in the realm of the European Community, and not lose its own identity, but enrich the continent and the world with its traditions” (John Paul II 2002: 135)
Summary
Poland was one of the few countries in the so‐called Eastern Bloc (1945–1989) where most churches and denominations, while under government surveillance, were able to function to some extent. The aim of the article is to present changes taking place in the religious lives of members of the Roman Catholic Church following the fall of the Communist system in Central and Eastern Europe, taking into account the role of globalization as well as integration with the European Union.
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