Alberto Ravagnani, widely recognized as an influencer priest, has announced his departure from the priesthood. The 32-year-old, known for his engaging presence on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, confirmed on February 1, 2026, that he would no longer serve in his role as parish vicar or youth pastoral collaborator in the Archdiocese of Milan.
Ravagnani’s digital ministry, which became particularly prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic, helped him amass a following of hundreds of thousands. His approachable style and ability to engage young audiences with spiritual content online have left a significant impact on the Catholic community and beyond.
Ravagnani’s Digital Ministry and Rise to Prominence
Ravagnani’s rise to fame was fueled by his innovative use of social media to discuss faith, wellness, and daily life. During the pandemic, his videos, which often blended traditional Catholic teachings with modern, relatable storytelling, attracted a large audience, especially among younger viewers. By 2025, Ravagnani had become one of the most recognized influencer priests in Europe.
His videos not only tackled spiritual topics but also integrated lifestyle content, offering a fresh take on how clergy could use social media platforms to communicate with a wider, digitally-savvy audience. His content resonated with people seeking an accessible way to engage with religion in a modern context.
Archdiocese of Milan Confirms Departure
On February 1, 2026, the Archdiocese of Milan officially confirmed that Ravagnani is no longer an active priest. In a brief statement, the archdiocese explained that he had stepped away from his pastoral responsibilities, though the exact reasons for his decision were not disclosed.
Ravagnani himself took to social media to acknowledge the change, thanking his followers for their support over the years. His post, which reflected on his journey, quickly garnered thousands of comments from fans expressing their appreciation for his work and asking about his future plans.
The announcement of Ravagnani’s departure quickly spread across social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), with #Ravagnani trending in Italy and internationally. Fans expressed their sadness at the news, many citing how Ravagnani’s videos had helped them reconnect with their faith during difficult times. Others speculated about his future, wondering whether he would continue to produce content outside of his priestly duties.
This reaction underscores the growing influence of influencer priests in shaping how younger audiences engage with faith. Ravagnani’s departure from the priesthood raises important questions about the future of digital ministry and whether other clergy members will take on similar roles in reaching younger generations.
A Larger Trend: Influencer Priests in the Digital Age
Ravagnani is not the first influencer priest to step away from their ministry. In 2024, French priest Matthieu Jasseron, known for his million-strong following on TikTok, also announced his resignation, citing frustrations with the structure of the Church. The growing trend of influencer priests highlights a larger tension between traditional religious roles and the modern demands of social media.
While the digital space offers unprecedented opportunities for outreach, it also raises questions about the blurred boundaries between a clergy person’s vocation and their personal brand. Ravagnani’s decision reflects this tension, as digital engagement increasingly becomes a significant part of how religious leaders interact with their congregations.
The Future of Digital Faith Outreach
With Ravagnani’s departure, digital ministry faces a gap in content that had been highly influential for many of his followers. His videos were widely shared among youth groups, schools, and parishes, becoming essential tools for engagement. Without Ravagnani’s presence, the Catholic Church may need to explore new methods for reaching younger audiences who increasingly turn to social media for spiritual content.
Some analysts suggest that the rise and fall of influencer priests may demonstrate the need for institutional support in digital ministry. While individual personalities can attract attention, sustainable outreach may require structures that balance creativity with accountability.
What’s Next for Ravagnani and His Followers?
As of now, Ravagnani’s next steps remain unclear. Speculation has already begun, with some followers wondering whether he will continue as a content creator focusing on lifestyle or motivational themes. Others hope that he will continue producing content in a non-clerical role.
For now, the future of digital faith outreach is uncertain without Ravagnani’s prominent role. His departure has opened up a conversation about how digital influencers in religious spaces can successfully transition from their priestly duties and whether others will fill the gap in online ministry.
