“One who comes [to the confessional], comes seeking comfort, pardon, peace in his soul; let him find a father who embraces him and says, ‘God loves you,’ and makes the penitent feel that God really does.” 
—Pope Francis, speaking of Padre Pio

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Even before he was officially recognized as a saint by the Church, Padre Pio was held in highest regard by the people of San Giovanni Rotondo, where he lived for a good part of his life. In fact, when Padre Pio’s superiors considered relocating him amidst speculation about his stigmata, the townspeople angrily gathered together to protest the move and even barricaded the monastery. In Padre Pio they found a model of faith. To this day, Padre Pio is venerated for his holiness, simplicity, and poverty—three characteristics we can all try to emulate.
Praying with Padre Pio
St. Pio, may we be as effective in spreading Christ’s message through our actions as you were. Let our lives be a true witness to others.