Franciscan Saint | St. Padre Pio

St Padre Pio was born Francesco Forgione on 25 May 1887 in Pietrelcina, Italy. From a young age, he experienced visions of his guardian angel, Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

At 15, Francesco joined the Capuchin Franciscans and took the name Pio. He was ordained a priest in 1910 and became known for his deep prayer and devotion to the Sacraments.

On 20 September 1918, after Mass, Padre Pio experienced a vision of Christ and received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ’s Passion, on his hands, feet and side.

He was well known for his ministry of Confession, spending many hours each day helping people return to God. He also founded the Home for the Relief of Suffering, a hospital dedicated to caring for the sick.

Padre Pio died on 23 September 1968. He was beatified in 1999 and canonised in 2002 by Pope St John Paul II.

"Pray, hope and don't worry." - St Padre Pio

Reflection: How can I use the gifts God has given me to serve others?