Cancellation because of a wedding? Trouble at the Vatican Bank

The Vatican trade union ADLV has shown solidarity with two employees of the Vatican Bank "IOR" who are threatened with dismissal because of their church wedding. It is hoped that regulations do not take precedence over sacraments in the Vatican, according to a statement issued by the ADLV on Wednesday. According to the internal rules of the Vatican Bank, employees are prohibited from marrying one another. This rule is intended to prevent conflicts of interest and cliques. According to the ADLV, there had recently been talks with the Vatican Bank and the Curia in this case, but these had been unsuccessful.

The current case is making headlines under the catchphrase "Romeo and Juliet". The couple got married in church at the beginning of the month, Italian media report. They now have the choice of one of them resigning or both automatically losing their jobs thirty days after the marriage. According to a report in the Messaggero, both have already been suspended for a few days as they have spoken publicly about the impending dismissal.

It is not certain whether they are a homosexual or heterosexual couple. However, media reports speak of a church wedding, which would speak in favour of the latter. In principle, a marriage between two employees is a compliance offence

Reasons for the marriage ban

This marriage ban is a consequence of the fundamental ban on employing spouses, relatives and in-laws at the Vatican Bank. In order to ensure equal treatment for all, it is said that marriage between employees who are already employed is also penalised. This rule came into force when the last married couple at the Vatican Bank retired.

In recent months, the Vatican's treatment of its employees has repeatedly made headlines. In May, for example, employees of the Vatican museums threatened to sue the Vatican. A few days ago, the Vatican trade union sent an incendiary letter to the public. (ben)