Padre Pio

Padre Pio was the religious name of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina (born Francesco Forgione, 1887–1968), an Italian Capuchin friar, priest, and mystic.

Padre Pio was the religious name of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina (born Francesco Forgione, 1887–1968), an Italian Capuchin friar, priest, and mystic. He became widely known in the Catholic Church for his stigmata, spiritual direction, reported miracles, and later canonization by Pope John Paul II in 2002. He is venerated by many Canadian Catholics.

Early life and vocation

Born Francesco Forgione in Pietrelcina, southern Italy, he entered the Capuchin order as a young man and was ordained a priest in 1910. He later became known as Padre Pio, or Father Pio.

Religious life and reputation

Padre Pio gained a large following for his confessions, spiritual counsel, and reputation for mystical gifts. Reports about his stigmata and other extraordinary experiences made him one of the best-known Catholic figures of the 20th century.

San Giovanni Rotondo and legacy

He lived for many years in San Giovanni Rotondo, where he served pilgrims and helped inspire the creation of a major hospital. His tomb is located there, and the town remains a major pilgrimage site.

Beatification and canonization

The Catholic Church beatified Padre Pio in 1999 and canonized him in 2002. He is venerated as Saint Pio of Pietrelcina and his feast day is observed on 23 September.