Catholic Church discusses revitalization of Italy's internal areas

Representatives from approximately thirty dioceses met in Benevento to discuss new strategies for revitalizing Italy’s “internal areas.” The meetings, held between August 31 and September 1, focused on addressing the social, pastoral, and demographic challenges facing these regions.

Participants emphasized the need to build alliances between the Church, civil society, and public institutions. A key outcome of this initiative is a planned open letter to the Italian Government and Parliament in 2025. The letter will invite policymakers to engage in a shared path to encourage a “repopulation of ideas” alongside demographic efforts.

The vision involves a new model of Church presence that empowers laypeople and families to take responsibility for their communities, particularly in areas where a permanent priest may not be available. Monsignor Mariano Crociata, Bishop of Latina, Terracina, Sezze, and Priverno, noted that the challenges facing these specific territories are part of a broader mission to provide service and announcement across all dioceses.