For me, the most extraordinary feature of Venice is not its network of canals but rather its ridiculous amount of churches and the choir of clanging bells that accompany them throughout the day (and night). It is a city where the presence of the Church cannot easily be forgotten and as such is typical of most Italian communities. With over ninety per cent of the population considering itself Catholic, one could easily imagine that the Roman Catholic Church had as tight a grip as ever on Italy as a country. But is the tide turning?

Recent (and not so recent) scandals are starting to take their toll on the Church’s standing in Italy. The older generation may still unconditionally trust in the Church but the young are starting to question her authority. Greater access to education and a greater worldwide view are both contributing to this phenomenon. “Those who study have a different relationship with the Church,” says 22 year-old-student, Elisabeth Pessa. “I trust in God but I don’t trust the Church.”

People are looking for flaws within the Church in order to undermine its authority in their lives. As with any large organisation, seek faults and ye shall find. Furthermore, as a religious institution, the Church is susceptible to any perceived mistakes being blown out of proportion as many expect perfection in its role as a moral authority.

Though there may not be much in the way of solid evidence to back a suspect link between the Church and the Italian government, in the minds of a growing number of people, corruption between the two may be taken as gospel. Rumours of Italian priests influencing the votes of their congregation are rife, with particular emphasis on the effect that this has on the ever-obedient older generation. With the long-standing tradition in Italy, the Catholic vote is an essential factor for any party to consider. However, a greater number of people are calling for a clearer division of church and state with interference by the Vatican seen as highly undesirable.

Historically, the Papacy has been dominated by Italians and the Pope’s German nationality is used as ammunition to shoot down the Church. His mandatory involvement with the Hitler Youth and conscription into the army are both seen as ‘proof’ of Nazi sympathies. Mentioning that he had no choice in the matter or that he risked his life by deserting the army will get you nowhere – his adversaries are determined in their opinion. That in itself suggests that the diminishing popularity of the Church is not caused by supposed faults – these are, in fact, merely used as a means of justification.

One flaw, however, has definitely had a detrimental effect on church attendance and that is the latest series of child abuse scandals. With the possible involvement of His Holiness himself, popularity levels have fallen. “I pray to God every night that the Pope will die,” says Italian hairdresser, Rita. What is the reason for this most heretical of sentiments? She is determined that he is to blame for all the problems within.

Catholic churches around the world are gradually emptying and this process is likely to be accelerated as scandals unfold. With the Vatican at the heart of its capital city, Italy has been well protected thus far. However, it is clear that an increasing number are prepared to sow discord among the ranks and let their opinions be known. This is either a natural response to widespread rumours or a result of a perceived ‘enlightenment’ among the young who have less time for religion than their ancestors. Both scenarios are worrying for the Church in Italy, but it is the latter that could cause irreparable damage. It is tradition that has kept its position strong, and a generation willing to break away is unlikely to re-enter the fold.