“Meditation is a means to attaining God, but it is not a goal in itself. Meditation aims at the love of God and neighbor.”—Padre Pio

---

Padre Pio had a rather structured prayer life. In addition to some of the things Padre Pio is more well known for, he was also a treasured spiritual adviser to many. He often corresponded with peo-ple, trying to help them live more fulfilling prayer lives. One of the things he often told people was that he believed there were five principles that every Catholic should practice in their lives. Those principles were: go to Confession weekly; receive Communion daily; perform an examination of conscience every evening; do spiritual reading every day; and meditate twice a day. For him, these steps were the key to maintaining—and growing— a strong faith life.
Praying with Padre Pio
St. Pio, thank you for the spiritual direction you have provided us with through your five principles. May they help us to live a more fruitful faith life.