Founded by Pius VII:1805. It was reestablished by him after his exile, June 18, 1814, as the Extraordinary Congregation for the Ecclesiastical Affairs of the Catholic World. In 1827 it reassumed its former name which it retains. Pius XI, July 5, 1925, made the cardinal secretary of state prefect eiC officio of this congregation. Until then it had no prefect, although the presiding officer was the secretary of state. This congregation establishes and divides dioceses and appoints to vacant sees in countries where these matters have to be taken up with the civilgovernment either because of a concordat or for political reasons. It deals also with all matters presented to it by the pope through the secretary of state, especially matters which refer to the civillaws and to concordats made with the various nations. Its members and officials are bound to observe by special oath the so-called secret of the Holy Office.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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