But since 1984, the Catholic Church has had to share government recognition with other religions operating in Italy, Introvigne said. Approved churches can become concordates, enjoying governmental rights similar to those of the Catholic Church. Earlier this year, then Prime Minister Massimo D'Alema signed concordates with the Italian Buddhist Union and the Jehovah's Witnesses. Italy is one of several European nations where taxpayers are required to support state-approved churches. But unlike Germany, where nonreligious citizens are exempt, all Italian taxpayers must pay the religion levy, indicating the faith of their preference on tax forms.
Nonreligious persons can choose a state charity or leave the box blank.
The state divides undesignated tax money between the established concordates and charities in the same proportions as for designated donations. Every year when tax forms are due, participating churches launch massive campaigns to attract nonreligious taxpayers to their causes. Such publicity would be a boon for Mormons, Introvigne said. And the church's chances of getting approval look bright, said Salt Lake attorney Michael Homer, who served an LDS mission to Italy and has done extensive research on Italian Mormons. Mormons were among the first religious groups to proselytize in Italy after the 1848 revolutions.