Mercy in Padre Pio

Saint Padre Pio embodies Divine Mercy in a truly extraodinary way. Pope Francis appointed him as one of the great patrons of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy (2015-2016). A huge part of the ministry of Padre Pio, in fact, took place in administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation as an extraordinary confessor, exigent and at times even severe. He dedicated a great deal of his time to hearing confessions, mainly because: "The greatest charity is to snatch souls snared by Satan to win them over to Christ."

The mercy of St. Padre Pio did not end in the confessional. It was also translated into other concrete gestures which enabled him, even physically, to experience the love of the Lord. For everyone the contruction of the hospital, "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza," strongly willed and realized by this humble Capuchin who lived in San Giovanni Rotondo, remains an eloquent witness. This excellent structure reminds us that mercy is made palpable and visible in the aid and support given to those who live in difficult situations. Finally, it is evident that our faith is made concrete where Jesus is not, first and foremost, a doctrine that is taught, but a person who is met and contemplated face to face.

About the Author: Stefano Campanella is an Italian journalist and Vaticanist, the director of Padre Pio Television and spokesman for the Press Office of the Italian Province of the Friars Minor Capuchin. He is the author of many books and essays about Padre Pio and has also produced and directed many religious films.