Due to escalating thefts and vandalism, the archpriest of Carini has decided to close all churches when no religious services are scheduled, sparking concern over the loss of sacred community spaces.
In Carini, a town near Palermo, churches have become frequent targets of theft and vandalism, prompting Archpriest Giacomo Sgroi to take the drastic step of closing them outside of mass hours. Incidents have ranged from stolen musical equipment-impacting the quality of worship-to break-ins at scout group facilities and vandalised nativity scenes.
Reflecting on the situation, Don Sgroi stated, “The situation has become unsustainable. To protect our churches I am forced to keep them closed for most of the day and hire a private security service to guard them at night”. Despite his efforts to foster civic belonging through community care initiatives, the ongoing wave of crime has dampened local morale. He urges collective action, emphasising, “The serious situation we are experiencing requires the attention of everyone, institutions and citizens. I am convinced that with collective commitment we can restore security and order.”