Padre Damián, known for his appearance on “La Voz”, has left the priesthood after 20 years. His decision follows a long period of personal reflection. He now plans to dedicate himself to cultural and educational projects.
Padre Damián, the Redemptorist priest who gained national attention after participating in “La Voz” in 2015, has officially announced his departure from the priesthood. The decision, made public through a statement on his social media, marks the end of a 20-year religious journey. According to his message, the move follows nearly three years of deep personal questioning and internal struggle.
In his announcement, Damián María Montes expressed gratitude for the experiences and challenges faced during his ministry. He described the process as difficult at times, but emphasized that he leaves with a sense of peace and fulfillment, having devoted himself to every mission and having fostered dialogue within the communities he served. While he chose not to disclose the specific reasons behind his decision, he highlighted a sense of reconciliation and appreciation for the support received from parishioners and colleagues throughout his two decades of service.
Montes now intends to redirect his professional life towards education, literature, poetry, theater, and broader cultural creation. He stated his aim is to contribute beauty, thought, and humanity to society. The possibility of building a new personal life, including starting a family, was also mentioned as part of his future plans. He assured those who have accompanied him over the years that his home and support remain open, inviting them to join him in this new chapter.
This announcement comes at a time when public figures in Spain are increasingly open about personal transitions and life changes. The story of Padre Damián echoes recent high-profile departures and transformations in Spanish society, such as the candid public statements made by Paula Badosa regarding her relationship with Stefanos Tsitsipas, which drew significant attention and discussion, as seen in this recent report on public reactions to personal decisions.
For context, the Redemptorist order, to which Damián belonged, is known for its missionary work and commitment to social outreach in Spain and beyond. The Catholic Church in Spain has seen a gradual decline in vocations over the past decade, with many clergy exploring new roles in education, social work, and the arts. While departures from religious life remain relatively rare, they often prompt broader conversations about vocation, personal fulfillment, and the evolving role of faith in contemporary Spanish society.
