Honduras and Holy See sign Concordat to protect religious freedom

Honduras and the Holy See have signed a 25-article Concordat to strengthen bilateral relations and protect religious liberties. The agreement was signed on October 22 by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, and Nasry Juan Asfura Zablah, President of Honduras, at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City.

The treaty recognizes the legal personality of the Catholic Church and grants it the right to self-govern and freely appoint its ministers without state conditions or limitations. A key provision of the agreement is the protection of the inviolability of the sacramental seal, ensuring the secrecy of confession remains without conditions or limitations.

In accordance with the Declaration Dignitatis Humanae of the Second Vatican Council, the agreement aims to guarantee freedom of worship and religious mission. The text will enter into force once both parties complete their respective legal ratification procedures and exchange the necessary instruments.