Italy’s Catholic Church has shifted its view and is showing a willingness to revisit its tax-exempt status on property. Criticism of the Church has grown following Premier Mario Monti’s proposal to restore a property tax on first and second homes as part of sweeping austerity measures. Ordinary Italians are being asked to make sacrifices and Read more
The founder of the Catholic lay Community of Sant’Egidio has been selected to form a part of Italy’s new government.
Andrea Riccardi was asked today to be the Minister for International Cooperation and Integration Policies in new Prime Minister Mario Monti’s administration.
Riccardi said he accepted Monti’s summons with the hope of “help[ing] in the process of national recovery.”
He said he believes that Italy needs unity.
“The commitment for social cohesion, national integration and international cooperation are part of my culture and experience acquired over the years,” Riccardi noted. “I am convinced they are crucial elements for a country to regain its strength and come through the crisis.”
Read the article...