Born in 1887 in Pietrelcina, Italy, as Francesco Forgione, Padre Pio even as a child was devoutly religious. By the age of 5, he had decided to devote his life to serving God. His parents, who were local farmers, were also devout Catholics, and as a family they attended Mass daily. Francesco even served as an altar boy and often took on penances to help others. Apparently, even from his early days, he saw and spoke with his guardian angels.| Catholic Stand
In the wake of the horrific murders of Catholic school children at Annunciation School in Minneapolis, parents throughout the country are understandably concerned that a similar event could happen at their children’s schools.| Catholic Stand
September is traditionally the month dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. We remember the moments in Our Lady’s life when she lovingly and willingly united herself to her Son’s sacrifice on the Cross and shared in His self-giving for our redemption. Through this inspiring devotion and reflection, Mother Church guides us to pray and meditate on Mary’s deep sorrow experienced at the crucifixion of her Son.| Catholic Stand
It has been a while since I last wrote for Catholic Stand, I have missed you. Let me bring you up to date. Life has taken me through valleys I never imagined I would walk. On Christmas Day, my father passed away. Just thirty-three days later—the same age that Jesus gave His life for us—my beloved husband died suddenly as well.| Catholic Stand
The saints have no hatred, no bitterness; they forgive everything, and think they deserve much more for their offenses against God ( St. John Vianney).| Catholic Stand
A whopping 93 percent of Americans 30 years old or older remember exactly where they were on September 11, 2001. It’s not easy to forget the most devastating attack on American soil since the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.| Catholic Stand
“They’re driving me nuts!” Haven’t we all thought this at one time or another? Just how do we deal with others—in our family, our circle of friends, the parish, the chapter, cenacle, deanery or other groups? Everyone is different. Each person has his or her own strengths and shortcomings, enduring traits and other peculiarities.| Catholic Stand
Received wisdom had taught me that virtue was its own reward, until my local supermarket taught me otherwise. A simple system of points per purchase enabled them to reward the virtue of loyalty with a two-for-the-price-of-one holiday break in Dorset at a hotel with a sauna, a Turkish bath, and an indoor pool. The short break was primarily designed to placate my body that had grumbled its way through the vigours of a three month diet imposed by my doctor. However its better half was ‘surpri...| Catholic Stand
Have you heard the news? Mel Gibson’s sequel to The Passion of the Christ, titled The Resurrection of the Christ, is planned to be released in 2027. With Jim Caviezel reprising his role as Jesus, the first part is scheduled for Good Friday, March 26, 2027, and the second part for Ascension Day, May 6, 2027.| Catholic Stand
There is a unique satisfaction that comes from catching a fish on a lure you fashioned with your own hands. There’s nothing else quite like it.| Catholic Stand
