The miracles of Padre Pio today
Todaythe tomb of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina has become a great place of pilgrimage, with almost seven million pilgrims a year, even more than in Lourdes. The body of the saint rests in the church of San Giovanni Rotondowhere the Capuchin friar lived from 1916 until his death in 1968. There, the faithful can see his body, as it is permanently exhibited.
Science does not currently explain the natural preservation of his body fifty years after his death. In addition, it still continues to spread, on a regular basis, a pleasant and penetrating perfume. Miracles continue to occur today and there are many testimonies of the graces received (miraculous healings, conversions…).
Everyone can entrust their intentions to Padre Pio by praying this prayer.
Pope Francis and Padre Pio
For a long time, the Pope Francisco has given much importance to the figure of the Padre Pio. In fact, he promoted the establishment of prayer groups founded by Padre Pio in his diocese of Buenos Aires.
During the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy 2015-2016, Pope Francis wanted the saint’s remains to be displayed in St. Peter’s Basilica. The body was placed in a transparent coffin and escorted to Rome by thousands of worshipers and police officers.
In March 2018, for the celebration of the centenary of the stigmata of Padre Pio and the fiftieth anniversary of his death, Pope Francis wanted to make a pilgrimage in the footsteps of the saint. He went to the two most important places in the life of the Capuchin friar, his native town: Pietrelcina and the convent where he spent fifty years: San Giovanni Rotondo. The Pope also placed himself under the protection of this wonderful saint.
The spiritual children of Padre Pio today
Learning to live according to the spirituality of Padre Pio is within everyone’s reach, thanks to the countless letters he wrote to his spiritual sons and daughters. These contain a source of rich advice and words for every difficult situation.
Even today it is possible to become a son either spiritual daughter of Padre Pio. All that is needed is to have the proper spiritual dispositions. This is precisely what the Capuchin Fathers of San Giovanni Rotondo they propose to us, by giving us the conditions (in the form of a brochure) to enter the spiritual family of Padre Pio. To those who faithfully commit themselves on this path, the Capuchins promise their daily prayer at the tomb of Padre Pio and the blessing of the Lord.
The conditions are as follows:
1. Live intensely the life of divine grace.
2. Give testimony of their faith through word and deeds, following an authentically Christian life.
3. Have the firm desire to place oneself under the protection of Saint Padre Pio, and enjoy the fruits of his prayer and works.
4. Imitate the much venerated Father in his virtues, especially in his love for Jesus Crucified, the Holy Eucharist, the Blessed Virgin, the Pope and the whole Church.
5. Recite, following the example of Padre Pio, the Rosary every day.
6. Participate in the Holy Mass, every Sunday and on Holy Days.
7. Be animated by a spirit of sincere charity towards others.