Does Italy really need an institution such as the European University of Rome?
Father Scarafoni: In Italy, as in all the countries of Europe, there is a very great need to intervene, as Catholics, in the field of culture and formation. Because, even though there are good institutions, the Catholic presence is surprisingly limited. Q: How would you describe this necessary “Catholic presence”? Father Scarafoni: On two levels. Within the universities, there should be Catholics who operate in them. And also institutes that, being Catholic, are available so that those who so wish may be formed in a clearly Catholic environment. Without giving up our identity, we have decided to take the first step to make this presence public. This is not only desirable — if only there were 20 more! Q: Is it an attempt to open the athenaeum up to society? Father Scarafoni: Yes, it would be an error to think of the athenaeum as a closed institution. But it must be clearly identified so that it and the new university have their proper place. The layperson will be able to share fully in
