Not long ago, San Giovanni Rotondo was only a quiet, remote Italian village. But today, for
countless millions, this town
has become a
spiritual mecca, radiating a renown comparable to that of Assisi and at times bustling with a pilgrimage like atmosphere not unlike that of Fatima or Lourdes. This transformation has come about because of one edifying citizen , Padre Pio, a Capuchin priest, who from 1918 until his death in 1968, bore the wounds of Christ.
Although Father Pio’s earthly life has ended, devout admirers from the world over continue to stream into the town which has become synonymous with his name. They come seeking blessings, favors and even miracles, as did
countless believers before, while this inspiring stigmatis lived. Pio’s life has been surrounded with accounts of unusual spiritual phenomena and astonishing gifts of knowledge above the natural order, and yet with peculiar suffering as well. He had throngs of followers and devotees but was not spared the humiliation of detractors and the derision of harsh critics.
Its is difficult to appraise the life of sstigmatist because there have been few so uniquely endowed during the course of Christian history to consider. Rarity, however, does not prelude reality. Miss Dorothy Gaudiose, who is the author drawing from years of on the scene observation, offers a devout though detached presentation of the life of this amazing mystic and of the loving power of the Savior beyond the pain.
Padre Pio is been canonized on Sunday, 16 June 2002.