RODRIGO ANTONIO DE ORELLANA AND THE LIBERAL SCHISM IN THE DIOCESE OF ÁVILA (1821-1822)

Abstract

This historical research work tries to interpret the schism that took place
in the diocese of Ávila between 1821 and 1822. The physical and intellectual
illness of the bishop and the consequences of Colonel Rafael del Riego´s liberal
policy complicated the situation. In an attempt of solution, the nuncio Giacomo
Giustiniani and Cardinal Ercole Consalvi, Vatican Secretary of State intervened.
The problem of ecclesial communion was only resolved, in part, with the death of the bishop in July 1822. The Government's proposal to appoint a successor in the person of José Antonio García Tejero, who had led the schism, reopened the debate on the relationship between the Church and the State in contemporary Spain.