Christianity losing grounds in Europe? Ancient Greek cult returns to Italy after Apollo Temple consecrated

Rome, Sept 8: With the help of public rite of consecration in Italy, Greek Temple dedicated to Apollo was consecrated in Tarantino, Southern Italy on Sept 7 by religious organization 'Pietas'. The event is not an isolated one and follows earlier constructions of temples of Jupiter, Minerva Medica and Apollo.

 

 

 

 

Greek media reports that, "This is not restoration of ancient ruins, nor conversion of existing structures, but a construction built from scratch by the religious organization "Pietas", which are also responsible for the construction the temple of Jupiter in Rome, Minerva Medica in Pordenone and Apollo in Palermo."

 

 

With the help of public rite of consecration in Italy, the restoration took place traditionally with the recitation of poems in Latin and ancient Greek. The traditional Greek act attracted the interest of citizens, as well worshipers of traditional religions. The rediscovery of such ancient traditions, not only on a cultural level but also on a spiritual level, is now a widespread phenomenon in Europe, from Greece to the Baltic republics, from Iceland to Italy, where "Pietas", the most structured organization, boasts of over 1,600 members, reports Greek media.

 

 

 

 

 

"Ours is a very long path, with deep roots," said Giuseppe Barbera, President of the association and Pontiff of the community, which is registered by the Italian state. "We are a rapidly growing reality, with adhesions from all over Italy and solid relations with foreign countries starting with India." As for the temple, yesterday's initiative is not to be considered an isolated exploit: Barbera said "Our worship is mainly domestic and we do not covert but we create temples as a reference point for the community and the collectivity."