The Romanian community in Settimo Torinese, Italy, is preparing to inaugurate its new parish church, built in just a year and a half. The inauguration is scheduled for Saturday, 14 March, at 3:30 p.m.
The wooden church was constructed in Romania by craftsmen specialised in woodwork, while the carved interior elements were created by master craftsman Ghiță Mureșan.
“The consistent and substantial support provided by the Department for Romanians Everywhere played an essential role in the completion of this project, making it possible to carry out the works within a relatively short period of approximately one year and a half,” the parish priest Paul Porcescu said.
“This institutional backing contributed decisively to the establishment of a durable church settlement dedicated to the liturgical, pastoral and community life of Romanians in the area.”
The priest also noted the support and good cooperation of the Consulate General of Romania in Turin, which encouraged and supported initiatives of the local Romanian community.
Brief History
The parish of “Saint John of Râșca and Secu” in Settimo Torinese was founded in 2017 to meet the pastoral and missionary needs of Romanians living near the city of Turin.
In its early years, services were celebrated in a space provided by the Catholic parish of San Giuseppe Artigiano. The foundation stone of the new church was laid last summer.
The land on which the church was built was granted on a 99-year concession by the Municipality of Settimo Torinese, with the involvement of Mayor Elena Piastra.
Photo: Diocese of Italy
