St. Padre Pio is one of the most well-known modern-day saints. He lived from 1887-1968. There are many photos and videos of him, which is really amazing to see.

A Model of Humility

St. Padre Pio was a humble man. When he received the stigmata and word got out about it, he retreated to a less populated area. He was also persecuted by many. Even though he tried to remain hidden, the people still flocked. One fact that always comes to the front of my mind when I think about Padre Pio is that he would listen to confessions for hours and hours. He could also read people’s souls and tell when they were leaving out sins. Many miracles have been attributed to him, and he is the patron of teenagers and adolescents.

Today’s Gospel for the Feast (September 23, 2025)

I always love looking at a Gospel on a particular saint’s feast or memorial, and seeing it through the lens of that saint’s life. Here is the Gospel passage for today:

“The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, ‘Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.’ He said to them in reply, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.'”

Luke 8:19-21

When I read this, I picture the crowds gathering to see St. Padre Pio. St. Padre Pio held everyone to high standards of living the Gospel and being an authentic disciple of Christ. Let us all be strong brothers and sisters in Christ “…who hear the word of God and act on it.”

Simple ways to celebrate the Feast:

• Go to Mass
• Pray the Divine Office
• Have a simple Italian meal (pizza, pasta with meatballs, or a caprese salad)
• Pray for the teenagers in your life!
  
  

St. Padre Pio, pray for us!