Spain, the Vatican, and Religious Liberty
MATTERS between Spain and the Vatican are taking a serious turn; for even Spain is found making advances toward religious liberty. The liberal ministry, now in power in that country, is endeavoring to extend to non-Catholic congregations in Spain some, at least, of the privileges of the state church; that is, they are to be allowed to advertise their services, put up bulletins, indulge in processions if they choose, preach openly, make converts, etc. But the Vatican is as strongly opposed to such propositions as to the purpose of the French government concerning the dissolution of the concordat. The controversy has reached a place where the breaking off of diplomatic relations may be expected at any time. While France and Spain are, so far as the governments are concerned, turning their backs upon the Vatican, Rome is putting forth stronger efforts than ever before in the United States and England.