At the service of the Italian Church: Campania, Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia

The Ad Limina Visits conducted by the bishops of southern Italy all took place in April. In an open and very cordial dialogue with the Dicastery, bishops addressed the topic covered by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life.

Campania, Calabria and Sicily still show a real popular piety, typical in the South of Italy, thanks to the presence of Confraternities that historically keep the religious feeling alive among a large part of the population.

In all regions, bishops found that laity engagement in institutions, commissions and diocesan offices is constantly increasing. Co-responsibility between pastors and lay faithful is a big yet not impossible challenge.

Movements and associations are a stable added value and often provide active support to life in the parishes.

In a social environment which often forces youth to migrate in search for a job, dioceses are committed in support projects for families in crisis and youth. Sicily, in particular, also confirms an organized pastoral care of the elderly thanks to solidarity networks and aid, as well as moments of reflection and meetings during the World Days for Grandparents and the Elderly.