The Archdiocese of Milan has confirmed that Alberto Ravagnani, aged 32,
has left active priestly ministry, reports IlMessaggero.it on February
1.
His social media profile portrays him as a self-centred
individual that is more reminiscent of nightclub culture than the life
of a priest.
In a note signed by the vicar general, Franco
Agnesi, the archdiocese states that Ravagnani — who should never have
been ordained — is no longer serving as parish vicar or as a
collaborator in diocesan youth ministry.
With more than half a
million followers on Instagram and YouTube, Ravagnani developed a
pastoral approach centred on reels, narrative hooks and an informal,
direct tone.
The timing is noteworthy. Ravagnani announced his
decision to abandon the priesthood while promoting his new book, La
Scelta (The Choice). In it, he recounts his journey from seminary life
towards a 'non-conventional' idea of priesthood. This includes
abandoning clerical dress and using digital media for self-portraiture.
His
online presence had already been surrounded by controversy in recent
months, particularly after he published sponsored content for a dietary
supplement brand, which was widely judged by Catholics to be
incompatible with priestly ministry.
The Archbishop of Milan is Monsignor Mario Delpini.
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