By Moses Bulamu
The recent tragic incident of Father Matteo Balzano, a 35-year-old Italian priest who took his own life on July 5, 2025, in Cannobio, Italy, has sparked a crucial conversation about the mental health and well-being of clergy members. Balzano was born on January 3, 1990, in Borgomanero, Piedmont, and was ordained a priest on June 10, 2017, by Bishop Franco Giulio Brambilla of Novara. He served as parochial vicar in the community of Castelletto sopra Ticino from 2017 to early 2023 and later resumed his mission among the young people of the oratory of the parish of Cannobio.
As we reflect on this incident, it’s essential to acknowledge the human side of priests, who often face immense responsibilities, loneliness, and pressure.
The Humanity of Priests
Father Omar Buenaventura, a Peruvian priest, shared his vulnerability, saying, “Like any man, I feel, I suffer, I laugh, I cry, I get anxious, I get sad… Inside every priest, there is a human heart, with feelings, joys, wounds, traumas, and histories that few people know.” This statement highlights the need to recognize priests as individuals with their own struggles and vulnerabilities.
The Need for Support
Father Francisco Javier Bronchalo, a Spanish priest, emphasized that priests “are not superheroes” and that the vocation doesn’t alleviate suffering. He noted that the loneliness of priests is often emotional, and there’s a need for support. Bronchalo also stated that “indifference kills more than hatred” and lamented that many priests live “in a climate of indifference, judgment, and excessive demands.”
A Global Concern
Studies have revealed a concerning number of priest suicides in various countries. In France, at least seven priests died by suicide over a four-year period. In Ireland, at least eight priests have taken their own lives in the last 10 years. In Brazil, 40 priests died by suicide between 2016 and 2023. These incidents are often associated with overwork, poor mental health, and clericalism.
Conclusion
As we reflect on Father Balzano’s tragic incident, it’s clear that we need to prioritize the mental health and well-being of clergy members. We must recognize their humanity, provide support, and foster a culture of compassion and understanding. As one priest noted, “We need to be treated like men, not like machines.” It’s time to rediscover the humanity of priests and provide them with the care and support they need.
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