Preaching the News for Sunday

Rockin’ priest puts a new spin on evangelization

The psalmist this Sunday encourages believers to “go out to all the world and tell the good news.” A priest in Italy has found a unique way to do so.

“Jesus Is number one!” shouts DJ priest Don Roberto Fiscer as he cranks up the latest hit by Lady Gaga for parishioners gathered at a beach resort in northwestern Italy. “I have a message for you that comes straight from heaven: Without Jesus there is no future, without Jesus we have no love, no joy,” shouts Fiscer, 33, over the throbbing disco music. He sports a lemon yellow T-shirt emblazoned with an image of the Virgin Mary and child and the words: “You are my river of love.”

“Music is what young people like the most. Through music, Jesus reaches their hearts,” says the priest, who was a cruise ship entertainer before entering the seminary at age 23.

The DJ priest who hosts a program every Wednesday has gained a following. “Some people here in Arenzano find it bizarre, even a bit surprising, but it’s really a great thing because these evenings bring together children, parents, families--and that’s what’s most important,” said Patrizia Rossi, who turned up in a multi-colored dress with her son Filippo in tow. “He’s great, he’s a super person who’s a lot of fun,” said Filippo, around 10.

“Believing in God doesn’t mean you have to be sad,” says Fiscer, who says his mission is to “find young sheep who have lost their way by meeting them on their own ground.” Fiscer got the go-ahead for the weekly event from Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco of Genoa, who also heads the Italian Catholic bishops' conference. “He trusts me,” Fiscer said.

While dancing and music dominate the event, religion is never far off. “Remember, Father Jan is available for confession over there behind the sun umbrellas,” Fiscer says between two numbers.

Father Jan, a Polish priest, hears the confessions of those who approach him on the beach chairs. Back at the dance floor, Fiscer regales dancers: “With Jesus, you’re always on holiday.”

Source: An article by Gildas Le Roux for Agence France Presse


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