Nazi policy towards the Catholic Church

• To whom did the Catholic Church owe allegiance during Hitler's regime?

  The Pope
• Why was the Catholic Church considered a potential threat to Hitler's control?


  Because it had its own schools and could influence the population
• What was the purpose of the Concordat that Hitler reached with the Pope in July 1933?


  To allow Catholic religious freedom and schools in exchange for political neutrality
• What did Hitler promise in the Concordat regarding Catholic priests?


  He promised they would avoid discussing politics and swear an oath of allegiance to the State
• How did Hitler violate the Concordat after it was established?


  By closing Catholic schools and banning the Catholic Youth League
• What happened to critical Catholic priests under Hitler's regime?


  They were sent to concentration camps
• What did Pope Pius XI realize by 1937 regarding the Concordat?


  That it was worthless
• What was the name of the public statement issued by Pope Pius XI in 1937?


  'With Burning Anxiety'