Roberto de Ascasubi to the Pope, October 1, 1873

Decree of the Ecuadorian Congress, granting an annual tribute to the Pope.

The senate and deputies of Ecuador in Congress united, considering:

• That the Catholic population should contribute to the sustenance of the universal government of the Church;
• That this duty is more required at present when our sainted Father finds himself despoiled by iniquitous usurpations of his lands and incomes, and when no Catholic government should fear to comply; and
• That the circumstances of the republic permit to give in some manner a solemn testimonial of their adhesion to the sacred seat—

Decree:

• Article 1. Ten per cent, of the part of the church revenues (diezmos) that belongs to the state shall be remitted annually by the Executive to the sainted Father during the embarrassing circumstances with which he is now afflicted, and as an offer of justice, loyalty, and reverence that the Ecuadorian people make to the head of the Church.
• Art. 2. The present decree shall be considered in force as from the beginning of the present year.

Communicate it to the Executive for compliance and execution.