Page:The Great Encyclical Letters of Pope Leo XIII.djvu/269



ALLEGIANCE TO THE REPUBLIC. 263

separation means that political legislation be entirely independent of religious legislation; nay, more, that Power be absolutely indifferent to the interests of Chris- tian society, that is to say, of the Church ; in fact, that it deny her very existence. But they make a reserv^ation formulated thus: As soon as the Church, utihzing the resources which common law accords to the least among Frenchmen, \\ill, by redoubhng her native activity, cause her work to prosper, then the State intervening, can and will put French Catholics outside the common law itself. ... In a word: the ideal of these men would be a re- turn to paganism: the State would recognize the Church only when it would be pleased to persecute her.

We have explained. Venerable Brethren, in an abridged though clear way, some if not all the points upon which French Catholics and all intelligent men should be at peace and unity, so as to remedy, in so far as still remains possible, the e\dls vdih which France is afflicted, and to elevate its moral greatness. The points in question are: Religion and country, poUtical power and legislation, the conduct to be observed in regard to this power and legis- lation, the Concordat, the separation of Church and State. . . . We cherish the hope and the confidence that the elucidation of these points will dissipate the prejudices of many honest,well-meaning men, facilitate the pacification of minds, and thereby cement the union of all Catholics for the sustaining of the great cause of Christ, who loves the Franks.

How consohng to Our heart to encourage you all in this way and to behold you all responding with docihty to Our appeal! You, Venerable Brethren, by your authority and with the enlightened zeal for Church and Fatherland which so distinguishes you, will give able support to this peace-making work. We delight in the hope that those who are in power mil appreciate Our words, which aim at the happiness and prosperity of France.

Meanwhile, as a pledge of Our paternal affection. We bestow upon you. Venerable Brethren, upon your clergy and also upon all the Catholics of France, the apostolic blessing.