Today is the feast of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, a Capuchin friar and stigmatist who devoted his life to confessions, the Eucharist, and care for the sick. In life, he has been gifted with supernatural gifts by which souls were drawn back to God. Since his passing into eternal life in 1968, he has been a powerful intercessor for innumerable favors and miracles. The profundity of the Passion of Our crucified Lord especially occupied his meditations, its meaning and mystery being the hallmark of his spirituality: St. Pio deeply understood the nature and value of suffering and its role in the growth and journey of the soul. He also held Mary in great and loving regard, and she was his consolation and aid during times when the devil oppressed him. He commended the faithful to develop a love and trust for Our Lord’s mother if they are serious in growing in holiness and virtue.
St. Pio of Pietrelcina, teach us to love the Crucified Christ!
