John Paul's vocation: "I aspire to be a priest".

When he arrived in Rome on July 26, 2022, he was a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Onitsha. However, with the creation of the diocese of Aguleri by Pope Francis on February 12, 2023, he became a seminarian of this new diocese and is now in Rome. He is in his third year of theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross and lives in the international ecclesiastical college. Sedes Sapientiae in Rome.

John Paul's vocation story

A vocation born in the heart of a Catholic family in Nigeria, where he was guided in the faith from childhood. John's vocation is deeply linked to that of his family. He was born into a devout Catholic family: his father is the late Mr. Godwin Chinedu Oraefo and his mother Mrs. Clementina Chinyere Oraefo, both with a great devotion to the Virgin Mary. She has two siblings: an older sister, Chinelo, and a younger brother, Onyeka.

John Paul hugs his mother.

"Growing up, my parents made sure that we participated in the Block Rosary Crusade (Block Rosary Crusade), a movement for children inspired by the three little shepherds of Fatima. When I was 3 years old, I attended for the first time these meetings where we prayed the Holy Rosary every night. We were also enrolled in the Legion of Mary, which strengthened our relationship with God".

"Also, after Sunday Mass, as a family we would go to receive the priest's blessing before returning home. I think this practice ignited in me the desire to to be a priest and bless people. I felt the call to the priesthood at the age of 6 and, although it seemed strange for my age, my parents supported me, trusting in God's will."

The minor seminary

While his peers dreamed of becoming doctors, lawyers or engineers, JohnPaul aspired to the priesthood. At the end of elementary school, his parents requested his admission to the minor seminary. All Hallows Seminary of Onitsha, which belonged to his archdiocese at the time.

"I took the entrance exams, was interviewed and finally admitted. The new minor seminary course began on September 13, 2008. My enthusiasm was great, but I was not fully aware of what it entailed: leaving my home and family, getting up at 5 a.m., attending prayer and Mass punctually, studying hard and developing new skills. It was difficult at first, but, over time, I adapted thanks to the help of my formators and teachers."

He graduated in 2014 and was sent for a year of pastoral work at St. Joseph Secondary School, Awkaetiti. Then in 2015-2016, he served at St. Joseph Parish, Awada. During this time, on May 31, 2016, on the feast of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, his father passed away, marking a difficult moment in his journey.

From Africa to Rome

That same year, along with some companions, he was sent to St. Pius X Seminary, Akwukwu, for a year of spiritual formation. In 2017, he began philosophical studies at Bigard Memorial Major Seminary, Enugu, where he studied for four years. He then undertook a year of pastoral work at the minor seminary. All Hallows SeminaryOnitsha, Onitsha, where he received his primary education.

"It was during this time that my bishop at the time, Msgr. Valerian Okeke, spoke to me about the possibility of study Theology in Rome. Thanks to their support, I came to this city to continue my education. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity," says JohnPaul.

Johnpaul Oraefo vocación sacerdote carf

The challenge of working in a newly created diocese

Studying in Rome, the center of Christianity, is a providential experience. One constantly perceives the richness of our Christian heritage, the universality of the Church under the guidance of the Pope and the witness of the saints who gave their lives for the Gospel.

In addition, John Paul makes it clear: "The creation of the Diocese of Aguleri is also providential. It helps us to strengthen the faith of Catholics, to evangelize those who have not yet embraced the Gospel and to accompany young people who, due to cultural influence and secularism, are losing their faith."

"Our bishop, Bishop Denis Isizoh, is very committed to these challenges, so my colleagues and I took our seminary training very seriously to respond to this mission."

Thank you to the benefactors of the CARF Foundation.

JohnPaul thanks God for guiding him this far. "I thank my family, my bishops, formators, teachers and benefactors who have accompanied my vocational journey in the priesthood. I also thank the CARF Foundation for its support in the formation of priests around the world."

And pray for the members of the CARF Foundation that their work may continue to bear fruit and that, as they collaborate with God in the sanctification of the world, He may bless them and fill them with His grace.

Gerardo Ferrara, Degree in History and Political Science, specialized in the Middle East. Head of the student body at the University of the Holy Cross in Rome.

"I felt God like a flame burning in my heart."

Jonathas Camargo (1998) felt God's call during the Covid-19 pandemic, although this was not always the case. One of the things that held him back from taking that step was his fear of opening himself to a true encounter with the Lord. Jonathas is now in Pamplona training to become a priest. He comes from the diocese of Leopoldina, Brazil.

Introduction to faith and its 'fear' of God

Jonathas arrived in Pamplona in 2023, where he is studying Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of Navarra. From a very young age, he participated in catechesis in his home parish.

God has always been present in Jonathas' family. Since he was a child, his mother took him and his three sisters to the parish to participate in the catechesis of formation. But in his adolescence, a time of rebellion and crisis, he drifted away from the faith, because all he did was attend Mass just for the precept. "Not leaving Sunday Mass, even if it is only to fulfill the ecclesiastical norm even if one does not feel like it, confers an infinite value that is always rewarded by God". 

To this reluctance was added a temptation: "that always stopped me from committing myself more to God; it was my fear of opening myself to a true encounter with the Lord," he confesses.

However, the sacrament of Confirmation was vital to become more committed to the Church. Receiving this sacrament is a Grace from God, a sacrament that, as its name indicates, helps a Christian to commit himself to be a witness of Jesus Christ: the baptized person is strengthened by the gift of the Holy Spirit, becomes more deeply rooted in the divine filiation and is more intimately united with the Church.

Coronation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a mission that brought him closer to God

With this determination, Jonathas began to participate in other celebrations of his parish, such as the coronations to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

"In addition, my commitment to the service of the Church was greater when I helped form and coordinate a youth group, also in my parish. This mission brought me very close to God", he says.

This young Brazilian seminarian recalls that being close to young people means above all listening to them in order to accompany them on their journey of faith and true love for the Lord.

Thus, her union with God grew, fruit of her will, of the good people around her, such as the parish priest, and of her own freedom.

God's call to his vocation

Jonathas recounts the moment he felt in his heart a striking presence with the Lord: "In 2016, at the age of eighteen, I was invited to be an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, and with this service to the Lord I felt in my heart the duty to live my faith in a more responsible way.".

Later, with the arrival of the pandemic, came the turning point for Jonathas: "I was studying for a degree in another city when the pandemic started and with it, all the restrictions imposed on us.

So, I returned to my hometown and dedicated myself to helping my parish priest in everything necessary so that the faithful could follow the celebrations through the Internet. Witnessing all the difficulties we were facing, and being able to feel the people's desire and expression of faith, I felt God's call like a flame burning in my heart as I participated in a Eucharistic adoration".

After this wonderful experience, in 2021 he began his vocational discernment process, and in 2022 he entered the preparatory seminary of his diocese. In July 2023, his bishop sent him to study at the University of Navarra, Spain., as it relates the website of your dioceseHe landed in Bidasoa accompanied by the rector of the seminary of Our Lady of Apparition of Leopoldina, Father Alessandro Alves Tavares.

Jonathas Camargo in Bidasoa.

Your training in Spain

His experience in the Bidasoa international seminar is discovering to him the great beauty of the universal Church: "My stay in Bidasoa has been of great benefit to my vocation. Here I have been able to grow even more in my prayer life and also in my academic life. Sharing life with priests and seminarians from the farthest corners of the world teaches me that the Church is universal and that the Lord can reach all hearts, and for that he wants us to be prepared to evangelize all nations.".

When he finishes his theology studies at the University of Navarra, he will return to his diocese where he will be ordained a priest. Jonathas is aware that all cities and countries have their peculiarities and difficulties in evangelization, but without prayer little can be achieved.

We must continue to pray for vocations

"I believe that, in my diocese, as well as in the whole Church, we must continue to pray that many holy vocations may arise for the Lord's harvest," says Jonathas.

A thought very much in line with the initiative proposed by the Church for March 19, the Day of the Seminary. The first thing the Church asks is to pray for vocations. Then, as far as possible, to help financially to support vocations.

Donate now to form diocesan seminarians from all over the world.

He leaves his future in God's hands, but asks him to continue with this desire to serve the Church wherever necessary and "to take the truth of the Gospel to all corners, and never forget to be faithful to what the Lord asks of us through our bishop".

Marta Santínjournalist specializing in religion.

«Spain must preserve the faith it once passed on to us.»

Al John Madrilejos Clet, 23 years old, is a Filipino seminarian residing in Pamplona, Spain, at the international seminary Bidasoa. He is in Spain studying third year of Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of Navarra because his diocese has sent him to our country for training.

History and origin of this Filipino seminarian's vocation

He belongs to the Diocese of Legazpi, Philippines, and tells how the flame of vocation was lit within him: "When I was a child, my grandmother always took me to church, she is a very religious woman and taught me what the Church is. I was very struck by the man who 'dressed in different colors at Mass’. Then, when I was 10 years old, I became an altar boy. That's when I learned a little more about the mission of this man who wore a chasuble and colors and who was the priest.

Afterwards, his mother enrolled him in the minor seminary school in his hometown to study primary school. Mª Teresa, a teacher and nurse at the University of Bicol (Tobacco Campus), thought it was a good school and, besides, it was close to the hospital where she works. She continued her studies at St. Gregory the Great Seminary up to the Baccalaureate.

A vocation supported by family in spite of distance

Al John's father, Alex Madrilejos, is an overseas Filipino worker. His brother is studying computer engineering at the University of Bicol (Polangui Campus in the Philippines). And his sister is finishing high school at the University of Santo Tomas (Legazpi) and wants to become a doctor. Despite the distance, our seminarian feels the support of his whole family for his vocation.

With all this, Al John knew that his father had alternatives for his professional future if his vocation was not to be. "At the end of high school, I gave myself some time to think about whether I was going to pursue the path of the priesthood and enter the major seminary, already as a seminarian.

My father asked me if I wanted to continue, because he had a different plan for me. After months of prayer, I decided to continue at the Mater Salutis major seminary. My father did not hesitate to support my decision"Al John, the eldest of three siblings, says.

Thus, after completing four years of philosophy at the Mater Salutis major seminary of his diocese, his formators suggested that he continue his formation in Spain.

Trust in God

"I have to admit that I had a lot of doubts because the level of the University of Navarra is high, but also I have experienced that nothing is impossible for God", states.

Of his stay in the seminaries of his diocese, he has fond memories: many friends and great learning, not only academically, but also the discovery of some personal talents and hobbies such as music and sports. "And the most important thing: deep love and relationship with Jesus, something I am also learning at the Bidasoa International Seminary."

Similarities between Spain and the Philippines

He is happy in Spain. For him, there are similarities in terms of the beliefs of our country and the Philippines since they were colonized. "I want to focus more on the religious practices that Spain has from the point of view of a Filipino. The liturgy is very nice, because here. things are present in Spain that we do not use in the PhilippinesThe deacon's dalmatic and the processional umbrella used when exposing the Sacrament," explains Al John.

He is attracted by the Spanish churches, which exude a peaceful atmosphere conducive to prayer and to attend Mass. "However, it saddens me a little when I see that the temples I have been to, especially in Madrid and Barcelona, are half-empty.not many people attend. And I ask myself: is it the result of secularization or a lack of faith of this generation?"confesses this young seminarian.

Al John and his love for the Virgin Mary

Al John prays and hopes that Spanish Catholics to have a deeper relationship with the Virgin Mary, to recover their Marian rootsbecause his faith has been steeped in Marian spirituality, and he has experienced that the relationship with the Lord passes through Mary.

"As part of a Mary-loving people, This veneration and relationship with our Mother helps us Filipinos to continue to live our faith under the maternal care of the Virgin Mary. It is a great help for vocations and especially for Spanish vocations. Spain must continue and preserve the faith that was once passed on to us Filipinos."

More than 92 % of the inhabitants of your diocese are Catholic, but vocation is low

It is this Marian spirituality that he wishes to see take root more deeply in his diocese, Legazpi. Located in Region V, Bicol, it is led by the bishop Joel Z. Baylon and has 117 diocesan priests y 42 religious. It pastors 1,390,349 Catholics out of a total population of 1,487,322, or 93 % of Catholics.

The Diocese of Legazpi faces several challenges, among them the implementation of pastoral programs. Al John explains those challenges: "The ongoing Diocesan Pastoral Assembly (DPA) reflects efforts to align with our bishop's vision for the local church. Some reforms from the Second Vatican Council that remain unimplemented also need to be implemented. Another important challenge is the ratio of priests to faithful (1 priest for every 9,000 people)This limits pastoral care and makes it difficult to effectively reach all parishioners.

The influence of popular devotions in the Philippines

Another challenge, as in many places, is dealing with the secularism that also wreaks havoc in the Philippines. "The positive thing about my country is that Catholicism has a strong impact through popular devotions and processions, that are deeply rooted in the local culture. It is a pity, moreover, that many of the faithful only attend Mass at Christmas and Holy Week, neglecting Sundays," he laments.

But Al John is eager and enthusiastic to face a secularized society, dependent on technology, where truth is less sought after.

"More and more people are attracted to virtual reality and the screen in front of them. However, this can also be an advantage. Easy access to media can be an advantage. an effective platform for evangelizationAnd how are we going to do it? We must become a testimony of God's love", says this young seminarian.

The example of the early Christians

For this great work, takes the early Christians and the apostles as a reference point.The first century, they became a living witness of Christ to the people, not only with words, but also through their efforts and actions to spread the good news.

For Al John, just as then, people discover Christ by what they see and hear. "Therefore, through these platforms, we become modern apostles by evangelizing virtual reality. showing God's love to reach people and their hearts. It is a great challenge, but with God's grace I believe it is possible.

To carry out his vocation and this great work of evangelization, he is preparing for the priesthood. For him, the first thing he must radiate is a shepherd's heart. "A shepherd's heart is both a guiding heart and an exemplary heart. A priest with a shepherd's heart is a guide for his people, through the sacraments, helping them to get closer to the true and good shepherd: Jesus," he says. Al John considers that a priest must render humble service in all areas of life.

"His service must be for all, and the presence of Christ must be made present in him through his humility and simple gestures. Jesus touches the person as a sign of great care and love. As Pope Francis says in his letter Dilexit Nos "it is essential to realize that our relationship with the person of Jesus Christ is one of friendship and adoration, drawn by the love represented under the image of his heart"."

Grateful to the CARF Foundation

Like all Bidasoa Seminoles, Al John is very grateful to the benefactors for the financial support that makes his studies and training in Spain possible. "Thank you for all the help you give us, you all give us the opportunity to train in incredible places like the University of Navarra. I pray for your intentions.

Marta Santín, Journalist specializing in religious information

The backpack of sacred vessels for celebrating Mass in rural areas

The CARF Foundation provides backpacks of sacred vessels to seminarians who are to be ordained as priests, as was the case of Hanzell Renatoallowing them to celebrate the Eucharist in rural areas of resource-poor countries.

Hanzell, ordained priest in September 2021 and appointed pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus in Boaco Viejo, expresses his gratitude for this support. He notes that, thanks to the backpack, he has been able to celebrate Mass with dignity; visit the sick and impart the sacrament of Anointing and bless homes in rural areas. This resource is essential for priests serving in regions with limited resources, facilitating the administration of the sacraments and strengthening the faith in isolated communities.

"I thank the board of trustees I would like to thank the CARF Foundation's Social Action team for their closeness and support, both spiritual and material. I would like to share with you that the backpack of sacred vessels that they gave me, a gift on May 28, 2021, has been a great help to me in the mission that I now have".

Hanzell Renato studied Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of University of Navarra and during his stay in Spain, he resided at the Bidasoa International Seminary.

Gracias al estuche de vasos sagrados proporcionado por la Fundación CARF, sacerdotes como Hanzell Renato Hernández pueden celebrar la Eucaristía en comunidades rurales de Nicaragua, acercando los sacramentos a quienes más lo necesitan.

Impact of the backpack of sacred vessels on pastoral work.

The backpack is an indispensable resource for priests working in isolated and under-resourced regions. It contains the necessary elements to celebrate the Eucharist, such as the chalice, paten and other liturgical accessories.

This allows priests to celebrate Holy Mass with dignity even in adverse conditions, bringing the presence of Christ to places where communities do not have access to a church.

"On one occasion, I met a community of faithful who had not participated in the Eucharist for months, a pain for not having Mass. Thanks to the backpack, I was able to offer them the Eucharist and feel the joy of bringing them closer to God," adds Hanzell.

Testimonies of priests who have benefited

Hanzell's testimony reflects the mission of many priests in rural areas of Latin America, who face challenges such as lack of infrastructure, long distances and scarce material resources. With the support of the CARF Foundation, these difficulties are transformed into opportunities to strengthen the faith of their faithful communities, often in rural areas that are difficult to access.

Hanzell montando a caballo por comunidades rurales
Hanzell riding horses in rural communities.

A letter from Pedro Antonio

Pedro Antonio is another priest from a Central American diocese and an alumnus of the international weekly Bidasoa. He writes to thank us for the gift of the backpack of sacred vessels he received from the volunteers of the Social Action Board of the CARF Foundation.

"I am Pedro Antonio, a priest from Central America and an alumnus of the Bidasoa International Seminary. First of all, I want to thank God for the opportunity to have studied at the University of Navarra, especially for allowing me to form my priestly heart in Bidasoa. 

The truth is that without the help of the trainers and so many good people from the CARF Foundation, it would be impossible to carry out this great work. A year ago I received as a gift, a backpack of sacred vessels with the necessary to celebrate the Holy Eucharist. On June 12, 2021, I was ordained a priest and the time had come to wear it.. After my ordination I remained as a collaborator at the shrine of Our Lady of Candelaria, my home parish," writes Pedro.

mochila vasos sagrados

The story of Jesus, from Venezuela

Jesus Melean is a priest of the Diocese of Cabimas, Venezuela. He studied Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of Navarra and was a resident at the Bidasoa Seminary. Before returning to his country, he received the backpack of sacred vessels from the volunteers of the Social Action Board. 

"This weekend I was able to celebrate Mass with a group of young people that I have the opportunity to accompany in their spiritual life. The backpack of sacred vessels has been a gift that I value very much because it is being very useful for this type of celebrations.

I have Mass once a month in different communities and this gift helps me to celebrate the Eucharist worthily everywhere.

Always grateful to the CARF Foundation for this gift... I could say that it is a gift that helps us to give (bring) Christ to others".

Donations that transform lives

The CARF Foundation is dedicated to providing academic, human and spiritual formation to seminarians, diocesan priests and religious men and women from countries around the world, mainly those with scarce resources.

The donations and prayers of benefactors enable these priests to carry out their pastoral mission with dignity and effectiveness. The CARF Foundation supports the promotion of infrastructure, formation and support projects for parishes in vulnerable areas.

"Every contribution we receive from benefactors has a direct impact on the lives of thousands of people. They not only help diocesan priests, but the entire community they serve," notes a CARF Foundation spokesperson.

How you can help

If you want to be part of this mission, you can make a donation here on our website. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps bring the sacraments to those who need them most, strengthening the faith and hope of all. With the support of benefactors and volunteers, the CARF Foundation continues to transform lives and ensure that the message of Christ reaches every corner of the world.

Anto Bezingar, seminarian from India: "my country needs more priests".

Anto Benzigar, a seminarian from India, entered the seminary at the age of 17. Now 26 (in 2025), he is studying the fourth year of theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties of the University of Navarre and resides at the Bidasoa International Seminary in Pamplona.

He discovered God's love as a child, thanks to the Christian formation of his parents.

Anto discovered the love of God as a childFrom a very early age, I received the spiritual nourishment I needed from my family, catechism and a formation in the association. Little Way. Through my parents' prayer life, and their total trust in Christ and devotion to Mary Most Holy, I became aware of the love of God, my almighty Father".

Because for him, the training received at home, in the family, is a treasure that we all have to thank our parents for.. A Christian formation that remains impregnated in our soul.

Anto (center of the picture), together with other seminarians from India.

A faith handed down from generation to generation

"Keralite (South Indian) families, like my own, often have a deep-rooted Catholic faith that is passed down from generation to generation.. This determination in family prayer and spiritual practices can be a valuable lesson for European families seeking to strengthen their faith," says the young Indian seminarian.

During his childhood, serving as an altar boy sparked in him a burning desire to become a Catholic priest. And after finishing his high school studies, he entered the seminary on May 31, 2015. He remembers the exact date with great joy and hope.

The origin of Christianity in your Indian diocese

The origin of Christianity in his diocese (Neyyattinkara) dates back to 1600, when a group of Catholics baptized by St. Francis Xavier settled in some localities in the area such as Neyyattinkara, Vlathankara, Amaravila and Parassala.

In 1707, the Jesuit missionary Fr. Severia Borgis started the Nemom Mission. The first converts came from the community of Nair and the first church of this diocese was erected in 1775 in Amaravila.

An 11 % of Catholics

But the spread of the Catholic faith increased in his diocese at the beginning of the 20th century with the missionary activity of the saint. Archbishop Aloysius Maria Benziger (OCD).

"His holy life, powerful leadership, missionary zeal and generous assistance to missionary priests paved the way for the formation of several ecclesial communities and the erection of many churches," says Anto.

Finally, on June 14, 1996, St. John Paul II, by means of the bull Ad Aptius Provehendum erected the Latin diocese of Neyyattinkara.

Today, the total population of this diocese is 1,467,000 inhabitants, of which 160,795 are Catholics, 11 %.

Shortage of priests: a major challenge

"With a relatively small Catholic population compared to the total population, there is a potential need for evangelization and reaching more people," says Anto, who says vocation needs and a shortage of priests in his diocese is a major challenge.

Paradoxically, this area of India has many parishes and missionary centers, and it is a great responsibility of the diocese to provide adequate pastoral care to its faithful, because, in addition, the people in India respect the catholic priest and holds him in high esteem.

Aid to seminarians in India

What can we Europeans learn from India?

This shortage of priests does not prevent the parish life of Kerala is very activewith vibrant communities that foster a sense of belonging and participation in the Church.

"This is something that can inspire European parishes: to create more attractive and inclusive environments for young people," says this young seminarian.

Anto's classmates dressed as mariachis playing at an end-of-year festival in Bidasoa.

Cultural and religious diversity in India

Another of the riches of Kerala, the province of Anto Benzigar, is the rich cultural heritage that combines Hindu, Christian and Muslim traditions. For him, this cultural diversity creates a unique and vibrant society where people from different backgrounds can live and work together.

"I believe this feature can inspire Europeans to embrace cultural diversity and learn from different traditions," he says.

One thing Europeans can also learn from their country is how to overcome obstacles: "Kerala has faced numerous challenges, including natural disasters and socio-economic problems. However, the Keralite people have demonstrated a remarkable resilience and a strong sense of community to overcome these adversities. This spirit of perseverance can be an inspiration to Europeans as they face their own difficulties".

The richness of living in Bidasoa

But Anto Benzigar is also gaining great knowledge of Spain. In addition to the language that gives him an international perspective, the cultural heritage of our country and its different ways of thinking.

Of course, as he says, Spain's rich history and art are giving him a deeper insight into the country's past.

But the most important thing is the international perspective that residing in the United States provides. Bidasoa International Seminar: "Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures fosters understanding, tolerance and a broader worldview," she says with satisfaction.

To this he adds the broad theological, spiritual, human and community formation, because, for him, living in a seminary fosters a sense of community and shared values.

"I am learning to live closer to others, cultivate relationships and support each other in this spiritual journey. Moreover, the pastoral experience I am gaining, such as volunteering in local parishes or working with marginalized communities, is of great value in serving others. All of this contributes to deeper personal growth, to manage my time, develop self-discipline and cultivate inner peace," she concludes.

Anto Benzigar formación seminarista India

The seven characteristics of a 21st century priest

Faced with the great challenge he will face when he returns to his country, this young seminarian from India dares to launch seven characteristics that a 21st century priest must have in order to live for the people he serves.

1. Authentic and accessible

2. Technology expert and communicative

3. Compassionate and inclusive

4. Passionate and mission-driven

5. Open to learning and growth

6. Collaborative and team-oriented

7. Openness to scientific research

Marta SantínJournalist specializing in religious information.

"My priestly vocation has been a true work of God."

Nataniel's vocation to the priesthood originated in the most unexpected situation, since his father belonged to the Kimbanguist religion, an African religious current originating in Angola, founded in 1921 by Simão Tocoknown as the prophet Kimbangu.

This faith combines elements of Christianity, especially Protestantism, with traditional African practices and beliefs. Kimbanguists believe in a supreme God, the importance of prophets and spiritual healing. They also promote unity, peace and social justice, and are distinguished by their emphasis on the fight against oppression and racial discrimination. Religion has a strong influence in Angola and other parts of Africa. However, a providential path led Nataniel to embrace the Catholic faith and, over the years, to feel a call to the priesthood.

Today he is in Rome, studying for his bachelor's degree in theology and living in the Sedes Sapientiae International Seminarthanks to a grant from the CARF Foundation.

Religion in the family

Nataniel is the second of five brothers and sisters, and comes from a family that is not strictly Catholic, but had a religious experience that marked his life. His father is a military man, and although he does not practice much, in his family the religion that was practiced was kimbanguista. On the other hand, his mother, Isabel, who was a hairdresser, was baptized in the Catholic Church but ended up converting to Protestantism. This was Nataniel's reality until 2012.

Nataniel con sus hermanas y su madre

The mother's reconversion

The change began when Nataniel's mother decided to return to the Catholic Church. "She gave us the order that we would no longer attend any other church, and we started going to church every Sunday." For Nataniel, it was a challenge. He had grown up participating in the Protestant church's Sunday school, where Bible quizzes were held, and what motivated him most to go was the chance to win prizes. Now, attending church, everything seemed strange and different. But he had no choice but to accompany his mother.

The discovery of the Catholic faith

By attending catechesis, Nataniel began to discover the teachings of the Church. He studied the Bible and Church history in greater depth, which strengthened his faith and gave new meaning to his life. In 2015, he joined the acolyte group, getting closer to the liturgy and the priest, and that same year he received baptism. "We can lose fame, youth, money, but the one thing that truly cannot be lost is Christ."

Priestly vocation

The year 2015 was key, not only because of his baptism, but also because he started high school. During that period, the idea of entering the seminary began to take shape in his heart. "Seeing the pastor carry out his ministry motivated me to follow in his footsteps. I felt in the depths of my being that my vocation was to be a priest, to give my life to the service of God and for the salvation of souls. I wanted to be an instrument of God in the midst of his people," he tells us joyfully.

The challenge of yes to Jesus

Nataniel was a bright boy in studies, he had received scholarships to study computer engineering in London or the United States, but in 2017 he makes the decision to share with his parents his desire to enter the seminary. "It was a difficult time, especially for my mother. She didn't understand why I wanted to take such a radical step in my life. For her, having her only male child take this path was hard to understand."

Over time, his parents, who had returned to the Catholic faith, began to open their hearts and understand their son's desire. Finally, in February 2018, Nataniel's parents accepted their son's decision to become a priest and on February 25 he entered the archdiocesan seminary of Luanda, a decisive step towards the dream of his vocation. "It was a moment of great joy and gratitude to God for allowing me to follow the path that I felt He had prepared for me."

Nataniel recibiendo la bendición

A journey of faith

Today he sees how each step has led him to where he is, to this call to the priesthood that began in his heart in an unexpected way, but which has been confirmed and strengthened over the years. "My vocation was born in a diverse family context, it has been a true work of God."

He is deeply grateful to his parents for their understanding and for supporting him on this path. "My desire is to move forward, with faith and hope, dedicating my life to the service of God and his people."

Grateful to the benefactors

With this testimony, Nataniel wishes to express his deep gratitude to all the benefactors of the CARF Foundation for giving him the opportunity to continue his studies in Rome.

She is currently in her third year of Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. "Thanks to your support, I am able to commit myself to the mission of Holy Mother Church to bring the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ to all nations," he says.

"I pray every day for you so that the Lord, the Supreme and Eternal Good, from whom all blessings come, may continue to bless you and guide your steps towards the vocation to which we are all called, Holiness. Thank you very much!" he says with a smile.

Gerardo FerraraBA in History and Political Science, specializing in the Middle East.
Head of the student body at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome.