The event that shocked Italy – 35-year-old priest takes his own life

Italy has been left in shock following the sudden death of a 35-year-old priest, deeply admired and respected by his community.

It is believed that the priest died by suicide — a deeply tragic act that is strictly forbidden in the Christian faith.

“No one knows what kind of hell someone carries inside to reach such an extreme gesture,” Don Matteo Balzano told a fellow parish priest shortly before ending his life, according to sources cited by local media.

Don Matteo, from Cannobio, Italy, was found dead in his home after he failed to appear for morning Mass.

When he didn’t answer phone calls, concerned parishioners went to his apartment — and what they found there shocked them profoundly.

“I’m shaken to the core by the news that you left us like this, silently. You were so reserved, kind, full of love,” said a parishioner, speaking to Il Secolo d’Italia.

“But I remember your last confession, about a death that had struck our parish. You said, ‘No one knows what kind of hell someone carries inside to reach such an extreme gesture.’ Those words of yours shook me deeply.

I have no need to judge, and I will not do so. I just want to hug you tightly, as I did when you leaned your head on my shoulder.

I hope, Don Matteo, that you have found peace in the arms of the God you loved so much.

I love you. Remember that, and please watch over us from above.”

“KORÇA BOOM”