Polish-Slovak ecclesiastical cooperation after Velvet Revolution

Abstract

Poles and Slovaks have a common geographical location, culture, Slavic roots, similar language and common experience of communist totalitarianism. Also, the Catholic Church can play an important role in the rapprochement between the two nations. Fragments of statements by Polish and Slovak Catholics quoted in the article show that this function to some extent is already fulfilled, although certainly not fully enough. Of course, close relations of Slovak and Polish Catholics is not only based upon the responsibility of the hierarchy, but it also depends on the development and strengthening of grass-roots initiatives by the laity. What should be considered of some importance is the creation of space for common experience of living faith by Poles and Slovaks. The possibilities already exist, among the others, within the Light-Life Movement and other movements and Catholic communities, as well as through organized youth exchange. It should be also taken into consideration that both nations have a grand common tradition of pilgrimage to the shrines. The opportunities to visit the holy places on both sides of the border should therefore be promoted as an example of awareness of close relations between Polish and Slovak communities.