San Giovanni Rotondo, Apr. 24, 2008 (CWNews.com) – An estimated 15,000 people attended Mass in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, as the remains of St. Pio of Pietrelcina were exposed for public veneration.
Cardinal José Saraiva Martins, the prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, presided at the Mass in the church that Padre Pio made famous. The body of the Capuchin friar, who died in 1968, was then placed on display in a glass coffin.
Padre Pio gained worldwide fame during his lifetime as a confessor and a stigmatist. Thousands of pilgrims flocked to San Giovanni Rotondo to meet him and ask favors, recognizing his reputation as a miracle worker. He remains one of the most popular saints of the 20th century; about 300,000 people attended his canonization in June 2002.
His body was exhumed on March 3, and discovered to be in excellent condition. Embalmers have since prepared the remains for public viewing. Already 750,000 people have made reservations to venerate St. Pio’s remains through the remainder of this year.
Filed under: Catholic | Tagged: Bishop William A. Higi, canonization, causes for saints, Padre Pio, St. John Bosco Latin Mass Society, Stigmata, Una Voce Carmel
As I was going through the internet, I happened to stumble with Padre Pio’s image. I’ve heard about his healing miracles. As I viewed his image, I prayed to him and asked to heal my broken heart. I’ve gone through a horrible emotional heart break. I touched his image then touched my chest praying that he heals my broken heart and fill that empty space that was left behind. Suddenly, I started to feel a strange fulfilling feeling in my chest. I prayed that he find me a better partner, nothing compared to the one that hurts me so much. I have faith in Padre Pio.
I have not doubt even of an iota regarding petitions answered by Padre Pio. I have experienced a miracle i can never forget which changed my life. I lost my most valuable gold ring from my finger and could not find it even after a big search. After a small prayer and plea to this saint of the 21st century I had a sudden sixth sense or third eye vision to look down my bed at home…and lo behold it was just deep below staring at me!!!! besides that I have always invoked his help when my children fall sick or I am facing emotional stress and trouble in my life. He has never let me down!