Honduras, Holy See sign agreement recognizing Church’s freedom

October 23, 2026

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State of His Holiness, and President Nasry Asfura of Honduras signed a bilateral agreement that grants more stable legal recognition of the liberty of the Church.

The agreement between the Holy See and Honduras comes amid persecution of the Church in neighboring Nicaragua.

Summarizing the agreement, the Holy See Press Office stated:

The State recognizes the right of the Church to operate according to her own rules, to govern herself and to freely appoint ministers of worship. Furthermore, it guarantees the right to conscientious objection and protects the inviolability of the sacramental seal, without conditions or limitations, and the confidentiality of pastoral workers, analogous to that of the confessional.

The Church’s right to establish educational and charitable institutions is also recognized, as is her right to provide spiritual assistance and pastoral care to people accommodated in social care, educational, healthcare and prison facilities, whether public or private. Finally, pastoral care for members of the armed forces and the police will be facilitated.

“In line with the Declaration of the Second Vatican Council Dignitatis Humanae, it aims to further guarantee religious freedom, including freedom of worship, and consequently the Church’s freedom to carry out her mission,” the statement added. “The bilateral Agreement reaffirms the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion in accordance with international instruments [agreements] regarding human rights.”

 

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Further information:

• Signing of an Agreement between the Holy See and the Republic of Honduras (Holy See Press Office, 10/22/26)
• Holy See signs agreement with Honduras (Vatican News, 10/22/26)