The article presents the evolution of the Catholic doctrine regarding the principles that should shape the relations between the Catholic Church and the state. The principle of respecting the pluralism of the worldviews of contemporary societies and the principle of religious freedom are fundamental. From them arise others – the principle of respecting mutual autonomy and independence and cooperation for the good of man and the common good. The existence of different interpretations of these principles may have a negative effect on the harmonious shaping of relations between the Catholic Church and the state.