Remarks made by Pope John Paul II during a visit to Europe“s second biggest crystalware producer, and the use of his name in newspaper advertising for the company“s products aroused considerable deb…
Remarks made by Pope John Paul II during a visit to Europe“s second biggest crystalware producer, and the use of his name in newspaper advertising for the company“s products aroused considerable debate earlier this year. The 30 March visit to the factory of Cristalleria Artistica La Piana Spa (CALP), near Siena, Italy, was planned as an occasion for the Pope to see for himself a typical industrial operation and also to belatedly celebrate St. Joseph, the patron saint of the labourer, whose feast falls on 19 March each year. Speaking to staff at the plant, he underlined the importance of “social solidarity”, “support for the weaker members of society”, “full employment” and the dangers of rampant capitalism. His remarks were interpreted by some as being political, criticising free market principles and calling for a strengthened welfare state. The Vatican hastily added that there was indeed a need for new social policies but also stressed the need to ensure that people, referring clearly to entrepreneurs, are able to “express their capabilities”. During his visit, the prelate was also presented with an ostensory and, for his private apartments, a set of the company“s high-quality lead crystal goblets. A national newspaper advert, reporting the visit and detailing the gifts, led to accusations that the Pope was allowing his name to be exploited for commercial purposes. Umberto Trezzi, CALP“s marketing manager, rebuffed the accusations and explained that the advert had been submitted to the Vatican and approved before publication. Heavy trading in CALP shares was reported.