by Anthony Parente

On May 25, 1887 in the small Italian village of Pietrelcina, Francesco Forgione was born. It wasn't until January 22, 1903 that he was given the name Brother Pio. When he was 15 Francesco decided to enter the Capuchin Friars in Morcone. Four years later he took the solemn vows of the Order. Then in August of 1910 in the Cathedral of Benevento he was ordained priest. Due to health reasons Padre Pio remained in his hometown serving the people of Pietrelcina. Six years later he was sent to the town of San Giovanni Rotondo to continue his work.

On September 20, 1918 an event took place that altered the life of Padre Pio. After celebrating Mass Padre Pio felt weak and lethargic when a person appeared before him. The person standing there had marks on his hands, feet, and chest that resembled those of Christ. Once the image had disappeared Padre Pio realized that he too had these same marks on his body. This event made Padre Pio the first priest ever to be stigmatized.

People came from all over to witness these marks, but that didn't prevent Padre Pio from continuing his duties and preaching. He later made a commitment to help relieve the pain and suffering incurred by people. Through much sweat, blood, dedication, and help from his followers Padre Pio was able to open the House for the Relief of Suffering on May 5, 1956.

He devoted his life to prayer and to serve God. He treated everyone as an equal and never turned his back to anyone. On September 23, 1968 Padre Pio said his last prayers on this earth. He was 81 at the time of his death. His body was entombed in a crypt at Our Lady of Grace Church. Padre Pio may no longer be with us but his teachings and beliefs continue throughout the world.

Shortly after his death the necessary steps were started for the Beatification and Canonization of Padre Pio. It wasn't until 1983 that the official process to determine if Padre Pio should be a saint began. On May 2, 1999 at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City the Beatification ceremonies took place. Beatification is the second step in the process of canonization, which is the official act of the Christian Church declaring one of its deceased members a saint. Finally on June 16, 2002 in what was one of the largest attended masses in the history of the Vatican, Padre Pio was officially canonized and named a Saint. It was announced by Pope John Paul II that September 23 would be the feast day for the newly named Saint.

Related Sites	Related Books From Amazon.com
The National Centre for Padre Pio Padre Pio and the Stigmata Padre Pio, Cappuchin Priest A Padre Pio Celebration Padre Pio Foundation	Padre Pio: A Man of Hope Padre Pio: In My Own Words Padre Pio Sanctus Padre Pio the Stigmatist Padre Pio: The True Story

Shops/Stores

Italiansrus Gear
Proudly display the colors of Italy with these great products.

RomeGiftShop
Purchase souvenirs & gifts from Rome & Italy. Get FREE postcards from Rome.

Italian Charms
Huge selection of Italian charms and jewelry.

FORZIERI.com
The world largest online retailer for Premium Italian Fashions.