Konted's Make My Day 2: Padre Pio

Padre Pio

             For fifty years, he bore the stigmata. He had wounds at the center of the palms of both hands. Once they disappeared, only to appear again. And, surprisingly, the wounds did not result to infections. Fragrance coming from the wounds was evident.

             A Capuchin priest from Italy, Padre Pio was frail and sickly in his younger days up to his senior years. He suffered, at one time or another, from the deadly cholera, tuberculosis, arthritis, ulcers and other serious illnesses.

             While bearing the stigmata, the same wounds that Jesus Christ had when He was crucified, Padre Pio was known for having healing powers. And he had the gift of prophecy and the power of intercession. It is said that he could talk to angels and that the devil once appeared to him disguised as young girls dancing naked.

             Often quoted as having said that "I'll do more after my death. My real mission will begin after my death.", Padre Pio's status had been elevated to sainthood and many miracles and intercessions have been attributed to him.

             There is one chapel in Libis, Quezon City named after Padre Pio. It was built by one Ramon Rodriguez who was himself cured of blindness through Padre Pio's intercession. For many, this place has become their sanctuary.

              The chapel is an air conditioned place of worship. Amidst stillness and solemnity, one can pray for any intention and can course it through Padre Pio. There is a place where special candles are lit and where written intentions are kept. An aviary can be seen in one part of the chapel's compound. The chapel is well maintained.

              Father Pio Chapel is along Rodriguez Avenue/C-5 Road near Honda Cars, Inc. Across the chapel is a KFC outlet. Going north, it comes before Eastwood. There are ample parking slots. I am sure you won't get lost. Padre Pio will guide you to the place.

- Konted

Entry and exit points of Fr. Pio Chapel along Rodriguez Ave/C-5 Road in Libis, Quezon City

There are ample parking slots. In background are buildings near Eastwood Shopping Complex.

Facade of Fr. Pio Chapel

One of several entrances to the chapel

Near the main door

Main altar of Chapel. At right is Padre Pio's statute where devotees fall in line to get near it.

At one nook of the Chapel

Boldly printed on a fabric

Poster of Padre Pio

Another quotation from Padre Pio seen inside the Chapel

Hallway leading to the small chapel where you light candles

Bronze statue of Padre Pio under the shade of a big tree

Highlighted are the wounds of the crucified Jesus Christ. Padre Pio bore the stigmata for 50 years.

A smaller chapel at the back

KG about to be wheeled out of the Critical Care Unit of the Philippine Heart Center after undergoing a successful 10-hour long open heart surgery. She frequented Father Pio Chapel days before her operation.