UGLY AMERICANS

Italians have had enough as there is an increasing problem of
Italian churches being trashed by tourists:

Visitors can no longer use the splendid entrance at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major — it’s sealed off because drunks and lovers had made it a hangout. In Florence, Catholic officials complain that church steps are turning into latrines at night. Police in Venice plan to fine tourists for leaving lunch leftovers in the square outside St. Mark’s Basilica.

There was once a time when people had respect for what people were trying to do in a house of worship--worship! But as our society continues to be secularized, churches are simply tourist attractions. In many people's minds they're museums, not living active places. And their actions show us how the civilizing aspects of faith are desperately needed.