News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

European-refugees-refugee-crisis-main_article_image.jpg
AP Photo/Kerstin Joensson
World News

Italian Catholic church vows to house homeless migrants

The Italian government's anti-immigration law may make thousands of people homeless.

The "Salvini decree" removes protection for people not eligible for refugee status. Those individuals unable to return home, have been left without a legal residence.

This decree was applied by several Italian cities soon after its approval by parliament earlier this month.

The Catholic Church has responded by saying it will help those who risk expulsion.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said last week that the Vatican's position is very clear: "You don't leave migrants in the street...you cannot put people in this position."

He added: "You must always focus on people and their rights."

The Bishop of Caltagirone, Monsignor Calogero Peri, has offered space for up to 40 people in beds across church fun facilities in his diocese. These would be used for people who risk expulsion.

Calogero Peri is quoted in the Guardian saying: "And if there are not enough beds? I have already spoken with other bishops: we will open the church doors of every single parish under our control.

"It's not a question of politics. It's a matter of protecting individuals. Imagine this: in Italy now it is a crime to abandon dogs, but it is not a crime to abandon people. Even worse, abandoning men, women and children is now the law."

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate