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  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (L-R) The Sparti family, who was banned on naming a godfather, waits for the Arena family, who received a special dispensation to name a godfather because of a death in the family had delayed the previously scheduled baptism, to sign the baptism documents in the sacristy of the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-081...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (L-R) The Sparti family, who was banned on naming a godfather, and the Arena family, who received a special dispensation to name a godfather because of a death in the family had delayed the previously scheduled baptism, are seen here during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-008...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (L-R) The Sparti family, who was banned on naming a godfather, and the Arena family, who received a special dispensation to name a godfather because of a death in the family had delayed the previously scheduled baptism, are seen here during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-022...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Antonino De Luca (33) light a candle during the baptism ritual of his son Samuel in the church of Santa Maria della Salute in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-198...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Samuel De Luca plays with his golden cross during his baptism ritual in the church of Santa Maria della Salute in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-193...jpg
  • ACI CASTELLO, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Grace Motta (21) holds her son Antonino at the Copacabana restaurant, where the family celebrated the baptism with a buffet, in Aci Castello, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-140...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio ladles holy water over Andrea Arena’s head during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-038...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (L-R) A photographer takes a family picture of Antonino De Luca (33) and Simona Cristaudo (34) with their children for the baptism of their son Samuel (in Mrs Cristaudo's arms),  here in the church of Santa Maria della Salute in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-179...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (R-L) Antonino De Luca (33) and Simona Cristaudo (34) enter the church of Santa Maria della Salute with their children for the baptism of their son Samuel (in Mrs Cristaudo's arms), in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-178...jpg
  • ACI CASTELLO, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24, center) holds his baptised son Antonino next to brother-in-law Alfio Motta (22, right, standing up), who should have been the child's godfther, here at the Copacabana restaurant, where the family celebrated the baptism with a buffet, in Aci Castello, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. Alfio Motta, Antonino’s uncle, felt cheated out of a great honor.<br />
“I feel like the godfather,” he said. “Even if I don’t have the title.”<br />
<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-141...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24, right) and Grace Motta (21, left) hold their baptised son Antonino after the baptism in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. The Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-112...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: The Sparti family poses for a group picture after the baptism of Antonino in front of the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. he Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-103...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Godfather Ivan Arena (29, left) poses for a picture with his godchild Andrea Arena (1 year old) and the godmother after the baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-090...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio makes a sign of the cross on Antonino Sparti's forehead during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-070...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio makes a sign of the cross on Andrea Arena's forehead during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-068...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio ladles holy water over Antonino Sparti’s head during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-048...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio is seen here during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-043...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio anoints Antonino Sparti with oil during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-029...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio anoints Andrea Arena with oil during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-025...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Godfather Ivan Arena (29) makes a sign of the cross on his godchild Andrea Arena's forehead during a baptism ritual in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-013...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Rev. Salvatore Cubito blesses Samuel De Luca during his baptism ritual here in the church of Santa Maria della Salute in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-192...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (Center, L-R) Antonino De Luca (33) and Simona Cristaudo (34) chat with family members before a group picture for the baptism of their son Samuel (in Mrs Cristaudo's arms),  here in the church of Santa Maria della Salute in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-186...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Agata Peri (68), the great grandmother of Antonino Sparti (1 year old), who was banned from having a godfather, is seen here after the baptism outside the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-116...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Alfio Motta (22, left), puts a golden necklace and cross on his nephew Antonino Sparti (1 year old), as his mother Grace Motta (21) holds him, after the baptism in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. Alfio Motta, Antonino’s uncle, felt cheated out of a great honor.<br />
“I feel like the godfather,” he said. “Even if I don’t have the title.”<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-098...jpg
  • ACI CASTELLO, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: The families of Nicola Sparti and Grace Motta celebrated the baptisms of their son Antonino with a buffet at the Copacabana restaurant in Aci Castello, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-147...jpg
  • ACI CASTELLO, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: The families of Nicola Sparti and Grace Motta celebrated the baptisms of their son Antonino with a buffet at the Copacabana restaurant in Aci Castello, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-145...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: A copy of the ban of the Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ending the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms is seen here in the office of Monsignor Salvatore Genchi, the vicar general of Catania, in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-223...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: The archive of the Roman Catholic diocese of Catania is seen here in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-224...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Andrea Arena (1 year old, center) is seen here after being baptised outside the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-093...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: The basilica of Catania, in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-230...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: Nino Sicali (68), a fish vendor in Catani's fish market, poses for portrait, in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021. Referring to godfather, Mr Sicali said “It creates a stronger tie between the families." When he was made a godfather, he said, he reciprocated by making his godson’s father a compadre to his own children. Over the years, Mr. Sicali said he was obligated to help his struggling compadre out financially. “He died owing me 12,000 euros,” he said.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-210...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Rev. Angelo Alfio Mangano poses for a portrait after baptising the six-month-old child Giuseppe Calderone, in the church of Santa Maria in Ognina,in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
Rev. Angelo Alfio Mangano said that spiritually objectionable characters used “threats against the parish priest” to be named godfather, a position used for social blackmail and sometimes usury, he said.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-168...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Marco Calderone (center) hold his six-month-old son Giuseppe that will get baptized by Father Angelo Alfio Mangano (left) in the church of of Santa Maria in Ognina, in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. “For them it might be abolished,” Mr. Calderone said, referring to the diocese of Catania's decision to abolish godfathers and godmothers. “Not for us.”<br />
Rev. Angelo Alfio Mangano (Santa Maria Ognina) said that spiritually objectionable characters used “threats against the parish priest” to be named godfather, a position used for social blackmail and sometimes usury, he said.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-162...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Rossella Calderone holds her six-month-old son Giuseppe as she walks towawrds the church of Santa Maria in Ognina to baptize her son, in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-158...jpg
  • ACI TREZZA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24, right) and Grace Motta (21, left) hold their baptised son Antonino in a miniature remote control white Mercedes during a photo shoot in Aci Trezza, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. The Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-130...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: Gold crosses, a typical gift bought by godparents for their godchildren, are seen here in a jewelry in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-245...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: The basilica of Catania, in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-237...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: Monsignor Salvatore Genchi, the vicar general of Catania, poses for a portrait by his office next to the basilica of Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-226...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 4 OCTOBER 2021: Nino Sicali (68), a fish vendor in Catani's fish market, poses for portrait, in Catania, Italy, on October 4th 2021. Referring to godfather, Mr Sicali said “It creates a stronger tie between the families." When he was made a godfather, he said, he reciprocated by making his godson’s father a compadre to his own children. Over the years, Mr. Sicali said he was obligated to help his struggling compadre out financially. “He died owing me 12,000 euros,” he said.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211004_NYT-Godfathers_A73-212...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: (R-L) Antonino De Luca (33) looks at his son Samuel being held by his mother Simona Cristaudo (34) as Rev. Salvatore Cubito baptizes their son, here in the church of Santa Maria della Salute, in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-195...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: The church of Santa Maria in Ognina is seen here in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-172...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Rev. Angelo Alfio Mangano poses for a portrait after baptising the six-month-old child Giuseppe Calderone, in the church of Santa Maria in Ognina,in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
Rev. Angelo Alfio Mangano said that spiritually objectionable characters used “threats against the parish priest” to be named godfather, a position used for social blackmail and sometimes usury, he said.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-166...jpg
  • ACI TREZZA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24, right) and Grace Motta (21, left) play with their baptised son Antonino during a photo shoot in Aci Trezza, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. The Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-131...jpg
  • ACI TREZZA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24) walks with his son Antonino away from a miniature remote control white Mercedes during a photo shoot in Aci Trezza, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. The Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-127...jpg
  • ACI TREZZA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Antonino Sparti (1 year old), who was banned from having a godfather, plays with a miniature remote control white Mercedes during a photo shoot in Aci Trezza, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-123...jpg
  • ACI TREZZA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Antonino Sparti (1 year old), who was banned from having a godfather, plays with a miniature remote control white Mercedes during a photo shoot in Aci Trezza, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-121...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Andrea Arena (1 year old, center) is seen here after being baptised outside the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-092...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Grace Motta (21, center) walks away from the baptisimal font holding her son Antonino after being baptised by Father Claudio in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-052...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Father Claudio is seen here as Nicola Sparti (24, right) holds his soon to be baptised son Antonino and walks towards the baptisimal font in the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-043...jpg
  • CATANIA, ITALY - 3 OCTOBER 2021: Nicola Sparti (24, left) holds his soon to be baptised son Antonino as he is greeted by family members before entering the church  of Santa Maria della Guardia in Catania, Italy, on October 3rd 2021. The Sparti family was banned from naming a godfather for their son Antonino.<br />
<br />
The Roman Catholic diocese of Catania ended a grace period and imposed a three-year ban on the ancient tradition of naming godparents at baptisms and christenings, arguing that the once essential figure in a child’s Catholic education had lost all spiritual significance, becoming a mere connection for material gain and family ties — and sometimes mob ties — and should be at least temporarily scrapped. Other dioceses, including in the Tuscan city of Grosseto also announced plans this month to restrict the figure, and Pope Francis has expressed interest in the idea, according to the Calabrian archbishop who first floated it to him more than five years ago.<br />
<br />
That tainted notion of the godfather became most popularized by The Godfather, especially the iconic baptism scene when Michael Corleone renounces Satan in church as his henchmen whack all his enemies. But church officials warn that secularization more than anything led them to rub the godfather out.
    CIPG_20211003_NYT-Godfathers_A73-003...jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. The Methodist Episcopal Church of New York City Book 2 for Baptisms, here on a table of a reading room of the New York Public Library, was transcribed in the 19th century and goes back to baptisms that took place in the 18th century. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library014.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. The Methodist Episcopal Church of New York City Book 2 for Baptisms, here on a table of a reading room of the New York Public Library, was transcribed in the 19th century and goes back to baptisms that took place in the 18th century. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library015.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. A marriage index book, which refers to the marriage clipping books, sits on the table of the reading room of the New York Public Library. It was acquired buy NYPL from the Geneological and Biographical Society of New York. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library013.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Picture of St-George's episcopal church in Hempstead Long Island (picture belongs to NYPL) where the book was made. The book is a transcription of marriages, births and deaths of Hempstead, L.I.Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library011.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy points out a register of the Colonial Families of Philisburgh, Westchester County, NY. The gravestone illustrates the beginning of the chapter of the Buckhout family, a dutch family that came to New Amsterdam in 1663). Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library009.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Books acquired from the New York Public Library sit on a table of the reading room of the NYPL. In the back ground is Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library008.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy points out a register of the Colonial Families of Philisburgh, Westchester County, NY. The gravestone illustrates the beginning of the chapter of the Buckhout family, a dutch family that came to New Amsterdam in 1663). Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library006.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Books acquired from the New York Public Library sit on a table of the reading room of the NYPL. Note: book on top (a "Test book" of the Emigrants Savings Bank) belongs to NYPL. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library004.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Books acquired from the New York Public Library sit on a table of the reading room of the NYPL. Note: book on top (a "Test book" of the Emigrants Savings Bank) belongs to NYPL. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library002.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. A marriage index book, which refers to the marriage clipping books (on the bottom right), sits on the table of the reading room of the New York Public Library. It was acquired buy NYPL from the Geneological and Biographical Society of New York. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library001.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Picture of St-George's episcopal church in Hempstead Long Island (picture belongs to NYPL) where the book was made. The book is a transcription of marriages, births and deaths of Hempstead, L.I.Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library012.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library010.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Books acquired from the New York Public Library sit on a table of the reading room of the NYPL. In the back ground is Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy. Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library007.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy points out a register of the Colonial Families of Philisburgh, Westchester County, NY. The gravestone illustrates the beginning of the chapter of the Buckhout family, a dutch family that came to New Amsterdam in 1663). Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library005.jpg
  • 15 July, 2008. New York, NY. Ruth Carr, Chief Librarian of United States History, Local History and Genealogy points out a register of the Colonial Families of Philisburgh, Westchester County, NY. The gravestone illustrates the beginning of the chapter of the Buckhout family, a dutch family that came to New Amsterdam in 1663). Up to 75,000 pieces were acquired from The Genealogical Society by the New York Public Library. The entire collection will be received between August and September and will then be cataloged for several years.<br />
<br />
©2008 Gianni Cipriano for The New York Times<br />
cell. +1 646 465 2168 (USA)<br />
cell. +1 328 567 7923 (Italy)<br />
gianni@giannicipriano.com<br />
www.giannicipriano.com
    Library003.jpg
  • FLORENCE, ITALY - 3 JUNE 2018: "The Baptism of Christ" (1472-1475 ca) by Leonardo da Vinci, is seen here at the Uffizi, before being relocated next month to a new room, in Florence, Italy, on June 3rd 2018.<br />
<br />
As of Monday June 4th 2018, Room 41 or the “Raphael and Michelangelo room” of the Uffizi is part of the rearrangement of the museum's collection that has<br />
been defining Uffizi Director Eike Schmidt’s grander vision for the Florentine museum.<br />
Next month, the museum’s Leonardo three paintings will be installed in a<br />
nearby room. Together, these artists capture “a magic moment in the<br />
first decade of the 16th century when Florence was the cultural and<br />
artistic center of the world,” Mr. Schmidt said. Room 41 hosts, among other paintings, the dual portraits of Agnolo Doni and his wife Maddalena Strozzi painted by Raphael round 1504-1505, and the “Holy Family”, that Michelangelo painted for the Doni couple a year later, known as the<br />
Doni Tondo.
    CIPG_20180603_NYT-Uffizi_M3_5086.jpg
  • SAN PIER NICETO, ITALY - 4 August 2013: Faithfuls gather after a baptism at a Sunday mass at Saint Peter's church in San Pier Niceto, in the province of Messina, Sicily, Italy, on August 4th 2013.
    CIPG_20130804_NYT_Travel_Sicily__5D3...jpg
  • SAN PIER NICETO, ITALY - 4 August 2013: A nun and a fathdul talk outside Saint Peter's church during a baptism in San Pier Niceto, in the province of Messina, Sicily, Italy, on August 4th 2013.
    CIPG_20130804_NYT_Travel_Sicily__5D3...jpg