To the stigmatist of Pietrelcina, patron of stress relief and civil defence.

St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina (1887–1968) was an Italian Franciscan Capuchin friar who bore the stigmata — the wounds of Christ — for fifty years. He was renowned as a confessor, spiritual director, and miracle worker, and was canonised by Pope John Paul II in 2002.

The Prayer

Dear God, You generously blessed Your servant, St. Padre Pio,
with the gifts of the Spirit.
You marked his body with the five wounds of Christ Crucified
as a powerful witness to the saving Passion and Death of Your Son.
Endowed with the gift of the Holy Spirit,
he became a most sought-after guide in the ways of the Spirit.
Grant that through the example and intercession of St. Padre Pio,
I may receive Your blessings and grow in the love of Your Kingdom.
[Mention your request.]
Amen.

About This Prayer

Padre Pio is one of the most beloved saints of the 20th century. He bore the stigmata from 1918 until his death in 1968 — fifty years. He heard confessions for up to sixteen hours a day and was said to have the gifts of bilocation, prophecy, and reading of souls. His famous motto: ‘Pray, hope, and don’t worry.’