Reputantibus

Reputantibus is an encyclical from Pope Leo XIII. of August 20, 1901. He turned to the Archbishop of Olomouc Theodor Kohn as well as to the Archbishops and Bishops of Bohemia and Moravia on the “ Language Question in Bohemia ” .

Language and nation

In his greeting, the Pope complains about the hatred of the external enemies and states that these heretics want to incite disagreement among Catholics . In Bohemia this disagreement is due to the language found, it is right that everyone should use his natural language , which he inherited from his ancestors. What is valid for private rights must also be preserved by the state for a corresponding fee , because it safeguards the good of the nation .

Avoidance of disagreements

His concern, writes Leo XIII., Is that religion would be affected by these language disputes . Everything must therefore be done not to let these disputes grow into disagreement among Christians . It is therefore advisable not to participate in these disputes in the context of his apostolic mission. Equally important is that the seminary students learn early on to practice brotherly love and to spread the word of God with a real heart.

Web links

• Text of the encyclical in English