In a momentous and historic occasion, the National Centre for Padre Pio in Barto, in the Diocese of Allentown and the Padre Pio Foundation of America in Cromwell, Conn. have announced plans for an extraordinary spiritual event: a visit to the United States by Capuchin friars from Our Lady of Grace Capuchin Friary in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy – the very friary home of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, known lovingly to millions as Padre Pio.
This landmark event will take place from Saturday, Oct. 11 to Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the National Centre in Barto, followed by a second leg of the pilgrimage at St. Pius X Church in Middletown, Conn. Oct. 15, 16 and 18.
The delegation of friars will be led by Padre Francesco Dileo, O.FM.Cap., Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Friars Minor in San Giovanni Rotondo.
In an unprecedented gesture of spiritual closeness, the friars will bring with them a full-sized, authentic habit worn by Padre Pio himself – a sacred relic that has never before left Italy. A second, smaller relic will also be available to bless the faithful throughout the pilgrimage.
Event schedule for the visit is:
- Oct. 11-14: National Centre for Padre Pio, Barto.
- Oct. 15, 16, 18: St. Pius X Church, Middletown, Conn.
- Oct. 15-18: Padre Pio Foundation of America, Cromwell, Conn.
The Oct. 14 10:30 a.m. Mass at the National Centre will be celebrated by Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert. For the full event schedule, go to www.padrepio.org/habit-visit or www.padrepio.com/relic-tour-2025.
The National Centre is a place of prayer, pilgrimage, and devotion, continuing the mission of its founder, Mrs. Vera M. Calandra. It exists to promote the spirituality of St. Pio through education, relics, and outreach. For more information: 610-845-3000; www.padrepio.org; @PadrePioInc on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
The Padre Pio Foundation of America, based in Cromwell, is dedicated to advancing the spiritual and charitable mission of Padre Pio through his teachings, support of religious vocations, and Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. For more information: 860-635-4996; www.padrepio.com; @PadrePioFoundation on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
By Nicholas Salkowski and Aleaha Kopec
Photo by Norm Steinruck.
