NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      VATICAN (CWNews.com) -- The 284 Bernini columns and the 88 pillars of St. Peter's Square will be undergoing a process of renovation this summer, in a process that is expected to continue through early October.

      The restoration effort is being done by the German firm of Alfred Karcher, a specialist in the field. The same firm has gained prominence by restoring the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Brandenberg Gate in Berlin, and the famous statue of Christ in Rio de Janeiro. The firm uses an environmentally sensitive approach, using water under pressure to clean off accumulated grime.

      The columns and pillars of St. Peter's Square have been seriously damaged and discolored by pollution. The restoration effort-- which is being done on a complimentary basis-- is intended to restore the building for the Jubilee Year 2000. The Italian firm ENI is already at work on restoration of the facade of St. Peter's Basilica.