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The Founder

 

The Speeches

Padre Pio’s catechesis, centered on relieving suffering and fostering prayer groups, was delivered with directness, simplicity, and practicality. He shared his teachings during confessions, in conversations, and through his interactions with the staff of Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, as well as with ordinary faithful.

His written reflections on the mission of relieving suffering and the role of prayer groups are preserved in three significant documents:

  • A Seed Has Been Planted on Earth, May 5, 1956 – the speech delivered at the inauguration of Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza
  • Padre Pio to His Children, May 5, 1957 – the address marking the first anniversary of Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza
  • The Father’s Word to His Children, May 5, 1966 – the message commemorating the tenth anniversary of Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza


The first two speeches were delivered directly by Padre Pio himself. The third, written by Padre Pio for the tenth anniversary, was read aloud by Cardinal Giacomo Lercaro, who celebrated the accompanying Mass. By then, Padre Pio, weakened by the painful events of the apostolic visitation and his declining health, was unable to preside and could only attend.

The speeches