The past May 7th 28 Legionaries of Christ were ordained in Rome. Among them was Father Rafael Vignaroli, LC, chaplain of Highlands School El Encinar in Madrid. The communication office in Spain spoke with Alejandro, his father, who, along with his wife Florencia, has been married for 46 years and has 10 children. Father Rafael is the sixth. Alejandro tells us that they learned about Regnum Christi in Córdoba, Argentina, because there was a vocations center of the Legionaries of Christ near their home where they regularly attended Mass. In this simple interview, Alejandro also encourages parents whose children might have a vocation to the priesthood, saying “they will never regret it!”.
His son Rafael felt the call to be a priest from a young age. How do you remember those moments from his childhood?
Rafa was very active in his childhood, sporty, mischievous like everyone, distracted, very healthy with his brothers and friends. At one point, he was invited to the Faro Club of the Apostolic, and that’s where he began to get to know Regnum Christi.
What is most needed when you accept that your son will go to a minor seminary: faith, generosity…?
How his vocation developed over time, only God knows. What was always present in him was his Joy. And that was a very important sign for us.
How has your relationship with Rafael been over these years?
The relationship with his siblings has always been excellent, as with us. He has always had our support at all times.
What would you say to parents whose children feel interest in a priestly vocation?
What can I tell parents whose children have a vocation to the priesthood! They will never regret it!!!
