Pio of Pietrelcina

Francesco Forgione (Pietrelcina May 25, 1887 San Giovanni Rotondo - September 23, 1968), canonized Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, was an Italian priest. He took the name Pio when he joined the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. After his ordination to the priesthood he was very popularly known as Padre Pio.

Biographical outline

• Born in Pietrelcina, Italy
• Baptised in Santa Anna Church, Pietrelcina
• Joined Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in 1903
• Ordained in Cathedral of Benevento in 1910
• Assigned priest at Santa Maria degli Angeli (Our Lady of the Angels), Pietrelcina; stigmata began (September 20, 1918)
• Served in Italian Medical Corps 1917–1918
• Began plans for Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza (Home to Relieve Suffering) in 1940; hospital opened in San Giovanni Rotondo in 1956