12 Amazing Facts about the Life of the Beloved Padre Pio
Note: Not an endorsement for Novus Ordo
Every so often, an extraordinary soul graces the world with
incredible holiness. Padre Pio was that man for much of the 20th
century. He was born Francesco Forgione on May 25, 1887 in Pietrelcina,
Italy.
Even at a young age he was called to a deep, unique
relationship with God—he later reported having conversed with Jesus, the
Virgin Mary, and his guardian angel on separate occasions. On
the opposite end of the spectrum, Francesco was attacked by the devil
as a young child. That would continue throughout his entire life. He
joined the Capuchins, took the name Pio, and was ordained a priest in
1910.
In 1920, he received the stigmata. Soon after, Padre Pio became internationally known for his sanctity.
Tens
of thousands of people saw him, and a simple internet search turns up
story after story of grace-filled encounters with Padre Pio. That happened during his lifetime, and it continues to happen while he’s in eternal life. Here are twelve aspects of Padre Pio’s life and spirituality: