Today we remember and pray to St. Pius of Pietrelcina better known as Padre Pio, an Italian Capuchin priest with a tremendous reputation for his holiness of life.
From 1918 to his death, Padre Pio bore a visible sign of the wounds of Christ known as the stigmata. He didn’t wish to receive attention for this and prayed for his hands heal but in time finally accepted its presence as God’s will. I read a reflection by Padre Pio that was titled, “Light from Jesus” in which he says, "Do not fear. Jesus is with you." He goes on to say, though you are darkness, “…the light of the Lord invades and surrounds your entire spirit.”
My brothers and sisters, for everyone who wonders how they can face spiritual battles with temptations, addictions, doubts and scrupulosity, gossip, false accusations and more. This holy man speaks to the reality of these trials and at the same time offers the hope found in the fidelity to Jesus to be with the troubled soul.
May God bless you and your families this holy day!
