Saint19th–20th century · Feast September 23
Also known as Padre Pio, Francesco Forgione, Pio of Pietrelcina
A Capuchin priest known for long hours of prayer, confession, spiritual guidance and patient endurance of illness and scrutiny.
Merciful God, through St Pio’s intercession draw us to honest repentance, strengthen the sick and make our prayer fruitful in practical compassion. Amen.
Born Francesco Forgione, Pio entered the Capuchins and was ordained a priest. His ministry at San Giovanni Rotondo centred on Mass, confession and spiritual direction, while reported mystical gifts and the stigmata drew intense attention and investigation. He also helped establish a major hospital, the Home for the Relief of Suffering.
Pio lived through two world wars, the rise of mass media and changing Church approaches to reported mystical phenomena.
Eucharistic devotion, confession, intercession, patient suffering and practical care for the sick.
Pio is meaningful for people seeking repentance, spiritual direction or perseverance through chronic illness, but his life should not be reduced to extraordinary phenomena.
People turn to St Pio of Pietrelcina in matters of:
1887
Is born in Pietrelcina
1903
Enters the Capuchin novitiate
1910
Is ordained a priest
1916
Begins his long ministry at San Giovanni Rotondo
1956
The Home for the Relief of Suffering opens
1968
Dies at San Giovanni Rotondo
Source-quality status: unverified prototype
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