The Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy is officially being recognized as a religion in Italy. Alfredo Mantovano, Undersecretary of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, and Bishop Siluan signed the agreement on Monday at the Government State Office in Rome.
The proposed law will now be presented to the Italian Parliament for approval.
Key Provisions of the Agreement
The agreement reaffirms the principles of religious freedom outlined in the Italian Constitution and ensures the autonomy and independence of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy in its internal organization.
It also grants civil recognition to marriages officiated by priests of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy, provided the priests hold Italian citizenship and the marriages are registered with civil authorities.
Religious Education
The diocese will have the right to offer religious education outside school hours upon request from students, their families, or educational institutions.
This initiative aims to preserve the connection with Orthodox traditions and faith among Romanian communities in Italy.
Legal Recognition and Funding
The agreement also recognizes the legal status of entities associated with the diocese, including those involved in educational, assistance, or charitable activities.
Additionally, the diocese will now participate in the distribution of the “eight per thousand” (otto per mille) tax allocation, providing public funding for religious, educational, and social activities within Romanian Orthodox communities.
A Decade in the Making
The recognition process began in 2013 but faced delays due to Italy’s political situation. Negotiations resumed in 2016.
Established in 2008, the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy currently oversees 478 pastoral-missionary units, of which 285 are parishes.
Photo: governo.it
