San Pio Foundation initiates layoffs for 38 workers

The Fondazione San Pio da Pietrelcina in San Giovanni Rotondo has initiated a collective redundancy procedure affecting 38 workers. This represents a significant portion of the foundation's 89-person workforce. The affected employees are sacristans responsible for order and welcoming pilgrims at the sanctuary.

The foundation cited economic difficulties as the primary driver for the decision, specifically pointing to a decline in pilgrim numbers and a subsequent drop in revenue from donations and the sale of religious items. Additionally, the foundation noted the increased costs associated with the renewal of the national collective labor agreement for sacristans for the 2026-2029 period.

Labor unions Filcams CGIL and Fisascat CISL have formally contested the layoffs, calling for a review of the process and a dialogue regarding alternatives. Meanwhile, a group of the affected workers has issued a plea to Pope Leo XIV, expressing desperation regarding their loss of livelihood and seeking intervention based on the dignity of work.