Rome, Sept. 23 (LaPresse) – The Chamber of Deputies approved, with 247 votes in favor, 8 abstentions, and 2 against, the bill establishing a national holiday for St. Francis of Assisi on October 4. The measure now moves to the Senate.
“In order to celebrate and promote the values of peace, brotherhood, environmental protection, and solidarity embodied by St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of Italy, a national holiday for St. Francis of Assisi is established, to be celebrated on October 4 each year. The holiday mentioned in the first sentence produces the civil effects provided by Law No. 260 of May 27, 1949,” which lists all national holidays from January 1 (New Year’s Day) to December 26 (St. Stephen’s Day). This is stated in Article 1 of the bill, which in the following article establishes that “On October 4 of each year, schools, public administrations, and Third Sector organizations shall encourage the organization of events, demonstrations, and celebrations that promote the principles and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi.”