In a significant turn of events, a married couple previously dismissed from the Vatican bank for violating an internal rule prohibiting workplace marriages has been reinstated following a negotiated settlement. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the union representing Vatican lay employees. Silvia Carlucci and Domenico Fabiani, who had filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in January, were married on August 31, 2024, and faced dismissal shortly thereafter. The union hailed the settlement as ‘a victory of common sense,’ though details regarding their return to work and specific roles remain undisclosed. The couple, who share three children from previous relationships, refused to cancel their wedding despite the bank’s suggestion that one of them resign. Financial obligations, including child support, alimony, and a new mortgage, made this option unfeasible. The union emphasized that while the settlement marks a positive outcome, it is incomplete as Vatican procedures do not provide for the reimbursement of legal fees for the prevailing party. The union also highlighted the lack of social support during the couple’s legal battle and criticized the regulation that led to their dismissal, noting it would be deemed unconstitutional in Italy. The couple has not publicly commented on the settlement but had previously expressed hope for intervention from the late Pope Francis, given his strong emphasis on family values.