Contarini's Final Mass in Albignasego Draws Emotional Farewell

Don Cesare Contarini celebrated his final Mass at San Lorenzo parish in Albignasego, Padua, on Saturday evening, receiving a long, emotional applause from a packed congregation. The service followed months of controversy surrounding the priest. Contarini faced protests from parents after former religion teacher Francesco Saviane was arrested for alleged aggravated sexual violence against seven minors. Although not directly implicated, the priest was criticized for hosting Saviane in the rectory, with a petition exceeding 16,000 signatures calling for his removal. Despite the disputes, supporters organized a warm farewell, thanking Contarini for his daily faithfulness and service. He was visibly moved, expressing gratitude for his 66 months with the community before handing over the church keys to the incoming parish priest, Don Lorenzo Parolin.