“The life and mission of Padre Pio prove that difficulties and sorrows, if accepted out of love, are transformed into a privileged way of holiness, which opens onto the horizons of a greater good, known only to the Lord.”
—Pope John Paul II at Padre Pio’s canonization Mass
Today we celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord, who suffered, died, and rose again for all of us. Padre Pio understood the power and meaning of Christ’s suffering, willingly joining in that suffering for the sake of others. Much was asked of the Lord, who in return asked much of Padre Pio.
For the past 40 days he has guided us through his words and examples. As we celebrate this joyous day, let us remember to move forward in the spirit of Padre Pio—caring for and serving others so that they may come to know Christ.
In Padre Pio’s Own Words
To succeed in reaching our ultimate goal, we need to follow our divine leader, who leads an elect soul only on the path that he walked himself, the path of self-denial and the cross: “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” [Matthew 16:24]. Shouldn’t you consider yourself fortunate for being treated this way by Jesus? The person who does not penetrate the secret of the cross is a fool.
The Holy Spirit tells us that to reach the harbor of salvation, the souls of the elect need to go through the fire of painful humiliation and purify themselves, like gold and silver in the crucible, and in that way they spare themselves having to do expiation in the next life:
Accept whatever is brought upon you,
and endure it in sorrow;
in changes that humble you be patient.
For gold and silver are tested in the fire,
and acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation.
[Sirach 2:4–5]
Jesus wants to make us saints at any cost, but more than anything he wants to sanctify you.
(To Raffaelina Cerase, August 15, 1914)
Prayer
St. Pio, your life serves as a powerful example of sacrifice and love.
May you continue to love and guide us as we walk our faith journey toward Christ.
