His friendship with the friars and his love for Saint Ignatius were the spark. It was the beginning of a "call" to God, which later became a certainty. Davide Corongiu, 29, has been a priest for just two days: a rare occurrence these days, given the decline in priestly vocations. The ordination took place in the parish church of Laconi by Archbishop Roberto Carboni, in the presence of relatives, friends, and fellow citizens.
The call
A huge celebration in the town where Davide grew up before entering the Capuchin friary in Corsica. Yesterday, however, his first Mass in Laconi brought a flood of emotions. His destination has already been decided: he will be assistant pastor of the parish of Sant'Ignazio da Laconi in Olbia.
"There wasn't a specific moment when I chose this path," the young friar priest recounts. "Rather, it was a journey made up of encounters, experiences, and people the Lord placed in my path. In particular, the witness of the friars who succeeded one another over the years in the Laconi fraternity conveyed to me the beauty of the Gospel lived in the simplicity of everyday life. I didn't understand everything immediately: it was a true journey of discernment. For this reason, I shared what I was experiencing with my friends and with the parish priest of Laconi at the time." Saint Ignatius helped reawaken what was within him: "Over these years, many spiritual figures and saints have accompanied me. In particular, Saint Ignatius of Laconi, also because he is my fellow countryman. His figure has always fascinated me: a simple and humble friar, close to the people and capable of welcoming everyone, who bore witness to the beauty of the Gospel with his life."
The ordination
The young priest will never forget the moment of the laying on of hands on his head: "It was a very intense and profound experience, rich in emotion." Davide wants to be an example for young people today who decide to approach the Church: "To a young person who hears the call but is afraid to answer, I would say: don't be afraid to listen. God speaks through people, encounters, and everyday situations. Above all, we are asked to stop, be silent, and listen. And today, perhaps, silence itself is one of the most difficult things to experience."
