Francesco, named in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, was born May 25, 1887. From his childhood, it was evident that he was a special child of God. He was very devout even as a child, and at an early age felt drawn to the priesthood. He became a Capuchin novice at the age of sixteen and received the habit in 1902. Francesco was ordained to the priesthood in 1910 after seven years of study and became known as Padre Pio.
On September 20, 1918, Padre Pio was kneeling in front of a large crucifix when he received the visible marks of the crucifixion, making him the first stigmatized priest in the history of Church. The doctor who examined Padre Pio could not find any natural cause for the wounds. Upon his death in 1968, the wounds were no longer visible. In fact, there was no scarring and the skin was completely renewed. He had predicted 50 years prior that upon his death the wounds would heal. The blood from the stigmata had an odor described by many as similar to that of perfume or flowers, and the gift of bilocation was attributed to him. He died on September 23, 1968 at the age of eighty-one. His funeral was attended by about 100,000 people.
Muted colors give this finely detailed statue of Saint Pio Padre the look of carved wood, much like those seen in southern Italy. Like all statues from the Avalon Gallery, it will bring spiritual elegance to your home or office. Would make a wonderful gift for Catholic friends and family. Each statue is carefully packed in a beautiful Avalon Gallery signature gift box, perfect for gift-giving.
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