A sincere expression of thanks

"Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit." (John 12:24).

There is a Gospel logic that does not follow the fast pace of human time: it is the logic of the seed, which must die in order to bear fruit.
This simple yet profound image best captures the journey of the Betharramite presence in Colico — a seed planted over a century ago, which took root in this land and bore abundant fruit in faith, vocations, service, and fraternity.

A Significant Moment
After many years of presence, the Fathers are preparing to leave the community of Colico on October 1st.
The Pastoral Zone of Colico wished to accompany this important transition with two days of deep gratitude, remembrance, and prayer.

Remembering a Living History
On September 25th, a well-attended gathering took place at the Colico Oratory, bringing together parishioners, friends, and former students.
Fr. Angelo Riva, SCJ, offered a reflection on Betharramite spirituality, retracing the Congregation’s journey in the region.
Yet more than words, it was the faces and shared memories that truly expressed the good that had been sown: former students of the Colico college recalled simple but unforgettable moments, marked by authentic, fatherly closeness.
It was a quiet yet enduring presence — one of listening, accompaniment, care, and love.

The Eucharistic Celebration
The following day, September 26th, the community gathered in the Church of San Giorgio for a solemn Eucharistic concelebration, presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Oscar Cantoni, Bishop of Como, together with the priests of the pastoral zone.
Alongside Fr. Angelo and Fr. Guido Pradella, SCJ, were Fr. Alessandro Paniga, SCJ, and Fr. Enrico Frigerio, SCJ, Regional Vicar in Italy — a powerful sign of a fraternity that transcends the boundaries of a single place.
In his homily, the Cardinal expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Fathers’ ministry across many areas: education, parish life, and hospital chaplaincy.
The bond between Betharram and Colico, he emphasized, is not broken — it is transformed, like the seed that, though no longer visible, continues to live on in the fruit it bears.

A Legacy That Lives On
The celebration was also attended by Mayor Monica Gilardi, representing the civil community.
The choir beautifully enriched the liturgy with music deeply in tune with the spiritual tone of the celebration, which included texts from the Votive Mass of St. Michael Garicoïts, founder of the Congregation.
At the conclusion, a simple yet heartfelt moment of fraternity allowed all present to personally greet Fr. Angelo and Fr. Guido, who are now preparing for a new mission elsewhere.
It was a sincere and emotional farewell — full of warm words, handshakes, and grateful embraces.

The Vicariate of Colico, together with the local community, entrusts this meaningful chapter of shared history to prayer and gratitude.

And like every seed once planted in the earth, it will continue to care for its fruit — with thankfulness and hope.