In a case that has captured the attention of many within the Vatican and beyond, a newlywed couple is challenging a controversial employment policy that they claim undermines the core values promoted by Pope Francis himself. The couple was dismissed from the Vatican's financial institution, known as the Institute for Religious Works, due to a policy that bars workplace marriages. This policy, they argue, stands in stark contrast to the pope's advocacy for marriage and family life.
Silvia Carlucci and Domenico Fabiani, who both worked at the Institute and are parents to three young children, are now taking their grievance to the Vatican tribunal. They argue that the new regulation, which led to their termination, contradicts both the pope's teachings and the rights of workers that he has long championed. Despite being aware of this policy, the couple chose to marry on August 31, 2024, committed to their financial obligations and family priorities.
We expected an intervention from the Holy Father, given his support for the family, Fabiani expressed, with Carlucci adding, There is a significant difference between the Vatican's public stance and what happens internally. Their case not only highlights this disparity but also the growing employee discontent amidst financial austerity at the Vatican.
The Vatican job, highly coveted in Catholic Italy, offers perks like tax-free income, various duty-free facilities, and selective housing opportunities. However, the financial challenges have resulted in hiring freezes and cuts to benefits, adding more fuel to the employee unrest evident in the Carlucci-Fabiani situation.
The Association of Lay Vatican Employees has rallied behind the couple, questioning the legality of the new rule under Vatican and Canon law. They emphasize that such regulations should consider the human element within any institution. Their online support expresses a deep concern for the principles of justice and charity potentially violated by this situation.
Defending its stance, the Institute insists that the policy aligns with best practices to maintain transparency and prevent conflicts of interest. They argue that given the small size and singular branch of the institution, the rule is essential to avoid professional complications that might arise from internal family connections.
Notably, the policy had not been enforced until all existing employee couples had retired, allowing a buffer period before implementation. Yet, Carlucci and Fabiani find these arguments unconvincing, pointing to other married employees working in the Holy See, albeit in different departments.
While Pope Francis has not directly commented on the case, he has demonstrated an awareness of the challenges faced by Vatican employees. Initiatives like the opening of the Vatican's first daycare center and a financial bonus for employees with larger families indicate his recognition of the need for supportive family policies.
The couple remains hopeful, though realistic about the potential outcomes. For Carlucci, the priority lies not just in securing employment but in the well-being of their family. Regardless of the tribunal's decision, our family will always be our priority, she reiterated.
This case, now before the Vatican tribunal, raises important questions about the balance between institutional regulations and the values of marriage and family celebrated by the Church. As the tribunal considers these complex issues, all eyes are on the Vatican to see how it navigates this significant challenge.
