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.

Rome

On 20 February 1971, Pope Paul VI, speaking to the superiors of the Capuchin Order, said of Padre Pio:

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20 February - 1971 - Pope Paul VI

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"Look what fame he had, what a worldwide following gathered around him! But why? Perhaps because he was a philosopher? Because he was wise? Because he had resources at his disposal? Because he said Mass humbly, heard confessions from dawn to dusk and was—it is not easy to say it—one who bore the wounds of our Lord.

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He was a man of prayer and suffering".

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Venerable

Padre Pio was proclaimed Venerable on 18 December 1997 by Pope John Paul II.

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18 December - 1997 - Pope John Paul II

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It was the first step to his canonization.

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Beatification

On 5 May 1999, Pope John Paul II proclaimed

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5 May - 1999

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Padre Pio Beatific. It was the second step to his canonization.

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Canonization

On 16 June 2002, Pope John Paul II proclaimed

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16 June - 2002 - Pope John Paul II

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Padre Pio, Saint Pio of Pietrelcina.

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Half a million people were in attendance at the announcement ceremony.

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