Charakter prawny posługi duszpasterskiej proboszczów i wikariuszy w parafiach rzymskokatolickich w świetle prawa polskiego

The presented article is an attempt to answer the question about the legal character of pastoral work of parish priests and parish assistants in the light of the polish law. Analysis of labour legislations, social insurance, current tax regulations and civil law leads to conclusion that priestly ministry cannot be classified as employment contract or any other form of employment. This sort of ministry can’t be listed in any known type of legal agreement. In such a case contractus innominatus (nameless contract) should be applied to the clerical ministry. Polish law permits the use of contractus innominatus. The content of such contracts, within the boarders determined by the absolutely obligatory norms, can be freely drawn up by the parties.