An American soldier who served during World War 2 shared that he had a life-transforming encounter with Padre Pio. When he visited the monastery, he was told that he would not be able to make his confession to Padre Pio because he didn’t speak Italian. He was then directed to a priest who was hearing confessions in English.

The soldier was disappointed because he had numerous problems and had hoped that Padre Pio would be able to help him. As he passed through the sacristy, he saw Padre Pio for the first time. Padre Pio stared at the young soldier with deep concentration. During those brief moments, the soldier became aware that his mind was being healed. He could feel a definite change in his thought patterns, a complete shift in his ordinary way of thinking. His burdens had suddenly been lifted.

One woman who made her confession to Padre Pio was plagued with many problems. Padre Pio said to her, “You must not be anxious or worried about anything because I am here with you.” To another who was undergoing severe trials he said, “Unite yourself to my prayers.” He said to Fr. Giancarlo Setti, whom he asked to oversee the Padre Pio prayer groups worldwide, “Father, you look after the prayer groups and I will look after your soul.”

To a woman who felt intense sorrow because of the death of her child, Padre Pio said, “I want you to know that your child has gone to a place where there is no more pain, no more suffering. That should be a great consolation to you.” And indeed it was.

Antonio Monari had a remarkable experience the first time he entered Padre Pio’s confessional. He said, “I told Padre Pio the many troubles of my family and myself and he listened paternally. I asked him for a grace for which I had waited many years for in vain. “Men can do nothing my son,” Padre Pio said and he pointed upward. “Only God who is above can help us. I will pray for you.” He then gave me his blessing. I cannot describe to you the feeling of profound emotion I felt, so much so that when I got up, I lost my balance. He touched me affectionately on the right side of my head. My right ear, in which I was completely deaf, suddenly opened and I have been able to hear perfectly ever since.”

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