Speaker Mr. Stanisław Małachowski initiated today's session by expressing grave concerns about the Union's integrity being threatened by the widespread distribution of a provocative declaration. He requested that this declaration be shared with all legislative members for consideration.

President Stanisław August Poniatowski summoned his Cabinet to relay that the Russian Monarch handed over the contentious declaration to Under Secretary of State for Lithuania-Belarus, Mr. Joachim Chreptowicz, who then presented it to Congress. Following the reading (which is published in full in today's Government Gazette), the President gave an impassioned speech warning of the imminent threat to the Union's self-governance, offering two paths forward: armed resistance against aggression or seeking mediation assistance from neighboring courts, highlighting the support of the Prussian King, the Hungarian Monarch, and the Saxon Elector. The President emphasized his readiness to sacrifice for the homeland wherever necessary.

In a discussion about the church hierarchy, Representative Mr. Stanisław Sołtyk from Krakow advocated for the adoption of a project concerning the Greek-Orthodox Uniate Church and its organization within Poland, receiving support from various bishops who emphasized the project's relevance for the Union’s welfare.

Other Congress members highlighted the need to ensure respect for the Uniates and Protestants, not only from foreign authorities but also within the Union itself. When put to vote, the proposal to adopt the project garnered 125 votes in favor and 15 votes for further amendment, thereby establishing it by majority.

The Church governance for Greek-Orthodox Uniates and Protestants was approved, recognizing the necessity of a stable church order for these citizens within the Union. The Congress confirmed the allocation of church funds and properties to ensure financial security for Uniate and Protestant institutions. However, property already integrated into the Union Church will not return to the Uniates, with civic rights for sponsorships and appointments being guaranteed.

Representative Mr. Stanisław Jabłonowski requested a decision on a project concerning provincial tribunals, which was unanimously agreed upon after being read by Secretary Mr. Jan Łuszczewski. The session concluded with an adjournment until the following day.

For my fellow undergrads in journalism and foreign affairs, today's Congress session was a whirlwind of church-related debate, discussion over the Union’s independence, and the endorsement of judiciary reforms. The President and legislators demonstrated a resolve to protect the Union's self-governance and to consider military defense or diplomatic mediation from allied nations. The attention given to Polish Greek-Orthodox Uniates and Protestant minority rights accentuates the contemporary issues of religious tolerance and social contract within the multi-national Union. The unanimous decision regarding provincial court reforms signals a smooth legislative process amidst these tumultuous times. Stay tuned for more insights from the Union Congress!

Topics: Stanisław Małachowski; Threat to independence and sovereignty; Wild Declaration; Stanisław August Poniatowski; Joachim Chreptowicz; Clerical influence in politics; Project of Greek-Oriental Non-Uniate Hierarchy; Non-Uniates and dissenters; Church funds; Provincial Tribunals of the Crown;