Saint Padre Pio

In the midst of our priest retreat ending and my annual physical appointment, I forgot to mention the Memorial of Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina. This memorial occured on September 23. Saint Padre Pio is one of my favorite saints and I ask his intercession everyday. He is truly a saint of our time, being born in 1887 and entering eternal life in 1968. Saint Padre Pio was a Capuchin Francisan who lived at the friary of San Giovanni Rotundo in Italy. Early in his priesthood he received the stigmata, or the wounds of Christ from the crucifixion, and these remained his entire life. As the commentary says about him, "He was a much sought after spiritual advisor, confessor, and intercessor who life was devoted to the Eucharist and prayer" (Magnificat, 318). It is written that Saint Padre Pio would often say, "I only want to be a poor friar who prays." He is a wonderful example and intercessor for us. Let us always seek the intercession of this faithful and holy saint, Padre Pio! God Bless!!!