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releasexpulsion of church people under detention, at well as the church's acuteover the matter, probably impelled ecclesiastical authorities to back off from their lough stance
The relationship between the Catholic litotent force In Chilean life-and the generals who now rule the country has frequently been stormy. On numerous occasions the clergy have spoken out against human rights violations and the harsh effects of economic austerity on the poor. But in every event the church's highest spokesmen havereach that almostwould have prevented them from servingoderating voice when almost all othergroups in Chile have been silenced.
Similarly, the government has been carefuleep church-state differences within manageable limits and to at least leave the door open for cooperation. The President has met privately with Cardinal Silva, presumably to work out anand both have appeared willing to take an even-handed approach in dealing with their quarrels. Pinochet's attitude can also beto the fact that many of the arrested church people are American citizens, and he does not want further complications with the US.
The church will remain cautious in dealing with the military regime; further strife over sensitive issues is likely, but it is to theof both sides to seek compromises. The junta would stand to lose the most If it used en Iron hand against the church. At the same time, the church could lose the support o' conservatives, who have already criticized It* involvement with the terrorlm, if It continues to confront the government.
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