Latest church gift ups state donations to $16.7 million
PANAMA’S GOVERNMENT has approved transferring land in Colon valued at $1.2 million to the Catholic Church bringing religious donations to $16. 7 million.
The decision was approved by the National Economic Council (CENA) at the request of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF).
The property, located in Espinar, will be managed by the Diocese of ColónGuna Yala.
Church authorities recently stressed that the upcoming visit of Pope Francis for a Catholic World Youth gathering should not be politicized.
President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife, Lorena Castillo, the First Lady, had lobbied extensively for the event, and the Metro Line 2 construction schedule has been speeded up to allow for the expected influx of delegates.
The extra cost has not been determined.
According to information released by the MEF, the decision for the latest donation was made because the church will use the land to develop a cultural and educational center.
The Church estimates that the center will be built within five years.
Public Registry data indicates that the land is approximately 6,200 square meters reports La Prensa.
During the Varela’s presidency,, the government has donated $16.7 million to religious organizations, mostly the Catholic Church.
