Same-Sex Nativity Scene in Italy Sparks Controversy

Father Vitaliano Della Sala defends the unconventional depiction, aligning with Pope Francis' recent ruling allowing priests to bless same-sex couples.

• A nativity scene featuring two mothers of the Baby Jesus, instead of the conventional Mary and Joseph figurines, has sparked controversy and anger among conservative Catholics and politicians in Italy.
• The scene was displayed in the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Capocastello di Mercogliano, Italy, and defended by Father Vitaliano Della Sala who stated his intention was to show that families are no longer just the traditional ones.
• Father Della Sala's stance is in line with Pope Francis, who recently allowed priests to bless same-sex couples in a landmark ruling.
• The Pro-Vita & Famiglia (Pro-Life and Family) group launched an online petition calling on the bishop of Avellino to intervene, stating the nativity scene contradicted the Church’s teachings on the family and legitimized same-sex parenting and surrogacy. The petition has attracted more than 21,000 signatories.
• Father Della Sala's decision has drawn criticism from other members of the Catholic Church, including Father Maurizio Patriciello, a pastor from the neighboring province of Naples, who called on Father Della Sala to apologize and put Saint Joseph back in his place.

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