Like his predecessor Pius XII, Paul VI put much emphasis on the dialogue with all nations of the world through establishing diplomatic relations. The number of foreign embassies accredited to the Vatican doubled during his pontificate. This was a reflection of a new understanding between Church and State, which had been formulated first by Pius XI and Pius XII but decreed by Vatican II. The pastoral constitution Gaudium et spes stated that the Catholic Church is not bound to any form of government and willing to cooperate with all forms. The Church maintained its right to select bishops on its own without any interference by the State. COUNT 5
QSN1 What number doubled during Paul Vi's papacy? ANS1 foreign embassies QSN2 Who did Paul Vi want to maintain a continuing dialogue with? ANS2 nations QSN3 What document states that the Catholic church is not subject to any particlar government? ANS3 Gaudium et spes QSN4 Who did the church retain the right to elect without interference from the state in its constitutional document? ANS4 bishops QSN5 What organization officially outlined the church's relationship to state? ANS5 Vatican II