THE EXPENDITURE OF THE CHURCH FUND RESOURCES IN THE YEARS 1950-1989

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THE EXPENDITURE OF THE CHURCH FUND RESOURCES IN THE YEARS 1950-1989

Journal Title: Studia z Prawa Wyznaniowego - Year 2009, Vol 12, Issue 12

Abstract

The article treats of the expenditure of the financial resources of the Church Fund over the years 1950-1989. The circumstances of the enactment of the 20 March 1950 Act on the Seizure by the State of the Property in Mortmain, on the Guarantee of Arable Farms to Pastors and on the Establishment of the Church Fund had immediate bearing on its subordination to the denominational policy. The proceeds of the appropriated Catholic Church’s and other denominations’ property were intended to be adequate to the needs of the clergy. The annual budget of the fund was based on subsidies passed by the Cabinet. The profitability of the seized property was hardy assessable due to the insufficient data at the state’s disposal. Practically speaking, the act determined the financing of the Church’s needs, yet in line with the guidelines of the Communist authorities. The most sizeable amounts were expended for the sponsorship of the so-called “patriot priests’ movement”. Moreover, as opposed to the regulations provided for in the act, the Church Fund failed to finance charity and welfare initiatives. In Communist Poland, the Church Fund was deprived of its financial autonomy and independent decision-making in favour of the Office for Denominations. In consequence, no effective control of the expenditure of the fund resources was implemented. The activity of the Church Fund exceeded its actual statutory obligations.

Authors and Affiliations

Michał Zawiślak

Keywords

EP ID EP124751
DOI -
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