ABSTRACT
A review of political events in Poland during the Edward Gierek era indicates a constant interplay of forces whose competition extends beyond a simple conflict as to respective spheres of competence. In the Gierek era the situation improved somewhat, and the government issued, between 1971 and 1974, over 150 permits for construction or renovation of churches and chapels. Although communist endeavors had only limited success and were not able to significantly weaken the Church in Poland, Polish bishops became very sensitive to potential dangers associated with the existence of Catholic splinter groups. The question of ecclesiastical buildings is burning thorn in relations between the church and the state. The reaction of the Church to various phases of secularization varied with the nature of the problem. The issue of human rights proved anew that the Church is attuned to the concerns of the people and is not hesitant to assume new responsibilities.
