Italy’s most handsome man chooses priesthood over modeling career

In a surprising turn of events, Edoardo Santini, once hailed as “the most handsome man in Italy,” has decided to leave his flourishing career in the fashion industry to pursue a calling to the priesthood. The 21-year-old, who claimed the title of the most handsome young man in Italy at the age of 17, had a promising future in modeling, with dreams of becoming a dancer, swimmer, and actor.

However, Santini’s aspirations took an unexpected turn as he announced his decision to enter a seminary and embark on the path to become a priest. In a video shared on social media on November 23, he expressed his journey toward this life-altering choice, stating his intention to become a priest, “God willing.”

The journey began in 2019 when Santini’s striking looks earned him recognition and opportunities in the world of fashion, opening doors to what seemed like a destined path to stardom. Despite the allure of the spotlight and catwalks, he felt a deeper calling away from the glamour of the fashion industry.

Santini shared in his video that over the years, he encountered people who exemplified what it means to “be Church,” inspiring him to explore the question that had lingered since childhood. He discovered “the real Church” in January 2020, prompting him to openly discuss his faith and the calling he felt on social media.

Living authentically in God’s presence became a central theme in Santini’s messages to his over 11,000 followers on Instagram. He emphasized that being in communion with God didn’t mean isolating oneself within the church but rather living life more fully.

Despite facing opposition, notably from his grandmother, who had different expectations for his future, Santini decided to prioritize his spiritual journey over societal expectations. He expressed his weariness of conforming to others’ desires and portraying a facade of apparent security and happiness through photos.

Taking a significant step, Santini chose to live with two priests, describing the experience as “the most beautiful” of his life. Sharing his daily life with them allowed him to discover answers to his spiritual quest within the fabric of ordinary life.

As a result of this transformative experience, Santini approached the bishop at the end of the year, expressing his desire to enter the preparatory course preceding life in the seminary. Currently studying theology and actively serving in two parishes of the Diocese of Florence, he reflected on overcoming fears of rejection and breaking down self-erected walls that hindered his decision-making process.

Santini also documented his profound experience at World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, on Instagram. Through videos capturing moments of laughter, dancing, and forging new friendships, he expressed how this gathering of young people marked a significant turning point in his life. The event revealed the beauty of the Church to Santini, solidifying his decision to pursue a life dedicated to the priesthood.

At 21, having bravely said “yes” to the divine call, Santini shared that he feels genuinely happy. His unexpected journey from the epitome of Italian handsomeness to the seminary serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the pursuit of one’s true calling.

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