Italian bishop condemns Mafia ceremonies at Catholic shrines

July 26, 2010

Bishop Giuseppe Fiorini Morosini of Locri-Gerace, Italy, has called upon Mafia leaders to cease the practice of holding initiation ceremonies at Catholic shrines. Reacting to the release of police videotapes showing an initiation at a Marian shrine near Reggio Calabria, the bishop released an open letter to the Mafia condemning the use of religious shrines for criminal purposes. He added the observation that if Mafia figures would amend their ways, the Church is “always willing to welcome you with open arms because it is the only institution that believes in the possibility of your conversion.”

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Italian bishop asks Mafia to stop using holy shrines for initiation ceremonies (Daily Telegraph)