Tragic Loss: Father Matteo Balzano’s Death and a Call to Prayer

Heartbreaking News of a Young Priest

Really sad news today. Father Matteo Balzano, a young Italian priest just 35 years old, has taken his own life. I heard about it early this morning and have been praying for him all day. After asking the Lord if He wanted me to share this, I felt led to do so—so that you too can pray for his soul.

Please also pray for his parish. They must be so shaken by this tragedy.

The Church’s Teaching on Suicide

I don’t have the wisdom to fully address this, but I rest in the bosom of the Church—trusting in 2,000 years of teaching passed down from Jesus to the apostles, through the saints and their successors. Here is what the Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us about suicide:

We Are Stewards of Life

Paragraph 2280 states:

“Everyone is responsible for his life before God who has given it to him. It is God who remains the sovereign master of life. We are obliged to accept life gratefully and preserve it for His honor and the salvation of our souls. We are stewards, not owners, of the life God has entrusted to us. It is not ours to dispose of.”

Suicide’s Contradiction to Love

Paragraph 2281 continues:

“Suicide contradicts the natural inclination of the human being to preserve and perpetuate his life. It is gravely contrary to the just love of self. It likewise offends love of neighbor because it unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity with family, nation, and other human societies to which we continue to have obligations. Suicide is contrary to the love for the living God.”

Psychological Suffering and God’s Mercy

Paragraph 2282 acknowledges:

“Grave psychological disturbances, anguish, or grave fear of hardship, suffering, or torture can diminish the responsibility of the one committing suicide.”

And 2283 offers hope:

“We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to Him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives.”

So we are called to pray for Father Matteo’s soul. It’s possible that, in his last breath, he repented.

Stories of Last-Minute Regret

I once saw a show interviewing 40+ people who survived suicide attempts by jumping off the San Francisco bridge. Every single one said they regretted it the moment they jumped. This gives hope that God, in His mercy, can touch hearts even in a final instant.

Mortal Sin and Mental Illness

Catechism 1857 teaches:

“For a sin to be mortal, three conditions must together be met: grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent.”

In a world where mental illness is rampant, I believe if someone isn’t in their right mind, they may not meet all three conditions. So, keep praying for Father Matteo’s soul and trust in God’s infinite mercy.

The Devil’s Goal: To Destroy Life

I once interviewed a demonologist—a retired New York City cop trained in demonology—who told me:

“The demon’s number one goal isn’t possession. It’s for a human to take his own life.”

We’ve even seen evangelical mega-pastors, seemingly full of faith, take their lives. Nobody is immune—Catholic, Protestant, or not a believer at all.

St. Peter’s Advice for Overcoming Darkness

In 1 Peter 5:6-11, St. Peter gives us powerful guidance:

“Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you. Cast all your anxieties on Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, firm in your faith.”

We all experience anxiety, stress, and fear. Resist the devil, and God’s grace will come.

Strengthening Body, Mind, and Soul

When the mind is weak, the devil attacks. Take care of your body—because physical health impacts mental health. Junk food, alcohol, and tobacco weaken the temple God gave you.

Consider consulting a doctor or nutritionist. Whether it’s a ketogenic, carnivore, paleo, or plant-based diet, find what strengthens you. And if you need medicine, remember: God gave us doctors for a reason.

Remove Toxic Influences

Be watchful about toxic people—even those claiming to be “Catholic influencers” but spreading hate and negativity. The Bible says God is love. If we don’t have love, we don’t know God.

“Love your neighbor as yourself. Love your enemies. Don’t give the devil a foothold.”

A Call to Confession and Prayer

If there’s hatred, anger, or unforgiveness in your heart, go to confession and ask God to heal you. Even if you’re right with God but still struggle with dark thoughts, consider medical causes like hormone imbalances or thyroid issues.

Take care of yourself for God’s glory, for your family, and for your mission.

Trust the Church and Stay Catholic

This tragedy deeply saddens me, and I don’t want anyone to fall into the devil’s trap. Take these words for what they are. Don’t trust me—trust the Church.

God bless you. Stay Catholic!