Cooperation of the State and the Catholic Church to Counteract Social Pathologies

ABSTRACT: Aim: The main purpose of the article is to determine the scope of cooperation between the Catholic Church and the state in counteracting social pathologies on the basis of selected social problems. Methods: The work mainly uses the dogmatic-legal method. Additionally, an analysis of the literature on the subject and case law was carried out. Results: The Catholic Church undertakes a number of activities to counteract social pathologies in various areas. For this purpose, activities are undertaken both independently and as a co-participant in combating pathology together with the state. Conclusion: Due to their source, both entities are obliged to act actively in counteracting all forms of social pathologies. There is no exhaustive catalog of spheres of activity of cooperation between the state and the Church. Originality: The scope of cooperation between the state and churches and other religious associations has been analyzed many times in the literature on the subject. However, the constant evolution of social problems, as well as the implementation of new solutions by the state, which also affect the reactions of the Catholic Church, require a return to the topic in order to verify the applicable legal status. Keywords: social pathologies; mission of the Catholic Church; cooperation between the state and the Catholic Church; assistance of the Catholic Church to the state; common good; counteracting sexual crime; principle of cooperation; state-church relations