Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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COUNCIL FOR THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS OF THE CHURCH

Established in its present form by Pope Paul VI in 1967, the Vatican office whose principal task is to look after the Holy See's relations with civil authorities. The council, therefore, deals with the diplomatic corps attached to the Vatican, and with papal representatives to the various countries. Although distinct from the papal secretariat, its prefect is the cardinal secretary of state.