SEPTEMBER – the very word conjures an aura of gentleness, kindness and serenity. Naturally, this month has the fragrance of the Birth of our Blessed Mother Mary. In addition, on 23rd September, we celebrate the feast of a gentle Saint-St.Pius of Pietrelcina (PADRE PIO) -a Saint of our times.
PADRE PIO was born on 25th May 1887, to a simple, hardworking farming family in Pietrelcina, Southern Italy. He was of poor health but strong willed. He joined the Capuchin Friars at the age of 15, completed the required studies and was ordained a priest in 1910.He had a deep union with God, a burning love for the Holy Eucharist and our Beloved Mother. On 20th September 1918, the five wounds of our Lord’s Passion, appeared on his body, making him the first stigmatized priest in the history of the Church. Worn out by intense suffering from these wounds and constant apostolic activity in San Giovanni Rotondo, he left for his heavenly abode on 23rd September, 1968.Pope John Paul II declared Padre Pio Blessed on 2nd May 1999 and Saint on 16th June 2002.
We are blessed with iconic Saints, who were known, not so much for their miracles, but for their intense love of Jesus in the Eucharist and for His beloved Mother. Countless were attracted to the confessional of Padre PIO, receiving saintly and spiritual guidance. His famous guidance (that I hold close to my heart) is, PRAY, HOPE and DO NOT WORRY!!!
During these trying days that we are all going through, continue to PRAY, to HOPE and please DO NOT WORRY (it leads to FEAR). Remember,***JESUS IS IN FULL CONTROL***
J.Rodrigues