Separation of Church and State in Europe: History and Present Moment

Abstract

The article presents the meaning of the principle of separation of Church and state in the European context. Christian teaching distinguishes between the secular and the spiritual sphere. In European society, such a division is accepted, but questions about the correct relationship between the Church and the state have been arising throughout history. The Church and the state seldom lived in a peaceful coexistence, and the state often interfered with the Church and vice versa. The correct understanding of the separation of Church and state means that spiritual leaders should not act as state leaders and that state leaders should not express their opinions on spiritual and moral matters. Church and state must work together for the welfare and progress of both the entire community and the individual.

Keywords

• state and church
• separation of church and state
• europe
• religion
• freedom of religion