Italy sees growth in secular celebrants and interreligious recognition

The NaxosLegge Festival has concluded its 16th edition with the ‘Premio ai saperi delle donne’ (Women's Knowledge Award), focusing on interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The ceremony, held at the Don Vittorio Resort, recognized several women for their spiritual and professional contributions, including Benedictine nun Noemi Scarpa, Islamic studies scholar Haifa Alsakkaf, Waldensian pastor Ilenya Goss, and Jewish studies educator Elena Lea Bartolini De Angeli.

Parallel to these formal religious recognitions, the role of the secular celebrant is gaining traction in Italy. These professionals are increasingly being trained to conduct personalized ceremonies for weddings, births, and funerals for those who do not follow traditional religious liturgies. Secular celebrants focus on reconstructing the unique biography and individuality of the person being honored, providing a non-religious way to honor life and memory.