Kościół rzymskokatolicki w koncepcjach i działaniach paryskiej "Kultury" (1976-2000)

Abstract

The aim of the doctoral dissertation was to reconstruct the editorial line on the church issue of the paris “Kultura”, the most important political center of polish emigration after 1945. Giedroyc's ambition was to effectively influence the worldview of Poles, shape attitudes, and bring up a mature, thinking society. "Kultura" has a significant influence on the formation of the Polish opposition, inspiring discussions and debates on many levels. Giedroyc was also interested in the Catholic Church. The editor saw this institution as the main force resisting communism. The historical role of the church in Poland and in the Soviet Union was therefore of no small importance. The line of the magazine on religious issues underwent changes over the years. In the editor's opinion, the church had enormous authority and moral strength. However, it was unable to use these assets appropriately. In Giedroyc's opinion, the church's position was too compromising and minimalistic. The editor's goal was to take an objective view and reject any taboos or concessions. Critical comments published in "Kultura" regarding the policies of Primate Stefan Wyszyński and his successor Cardinal Józef Glemp outraged the Polish episcopate. For this reason, for years "Kultura" was accused of anti-church phobia and marginalizing religious topics in the magazine. The work covers the period from 1976 to 2000. It discusses the situation of the church in Poland, the situation of lay Catholics, the issue of the policy of the Holy See and the issue of pastoral care among Polish emigrants.