Secrets of a Soul: Padre Pio's Letters to His Spiritual Directors

by Elvira G. DiFabio (Translator), Gianluigi Pasquale (Editor)

About this rare glimpse into the heart and soul of Padre Pio reveals the profound spirituality and humanity of the beloved Capuchin friar whom Pope John Paul II canonized in 2002. Beyond the extroardinary events that accompanied Padre Pio's life, these intimate letters attest to his personal struggles, worries, temptations, and fears. Padre Pio suffered much, but hoped even more in the One he loved Christ Crucified. The letters of Padre Pio prove once again that "difficulties and sorrows, if accepted out of love, are transformed into a privileged way of holiness..." (Pope John Paul II).The book consists of two parts, each with an introduction by a member of the Capuchins, to which Padre Pio belonged. Part I offers 24 letters of Padre Pio regarding his receiving of the stigmata and his early years (1910 to 1914). Part II entitled Victim to Console the Heart of Jesus includes 23 letters written from 1915 to 1920. In total, these almost 50 letters reveal the secrets that Padre Pio shared only with his spiritual father.Those who read the letters of this Franciscan friar who bore the wounds of Christ will discover the fidelity of God who is present in the world today and active in his saints.Features & Features insightful commentary on Padre Pio's letters Presents the letters in the historical context of Padre Pio's time Wonderful reading for all who are devoted to this immensely popular saint Inspirational for anyone interested in mystical phenomenon! About the letters are gathered and presented by Florio Alessandro Tessari, O.F.M. Cap., a collaborator with the postulator for Padre Pio's canonization cause, and member of Padre Pio's order.What Are People Saying about this Title?"This book is a wonderful read if you too struggle with leading a good Christian Life. This book gives you such a look into Padre Pio's deepest feelings, it opens a window for us to see that no one is al

Genres: Catholic, Theology, Religion, Spirituality

208 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2003

Reviews

[Pati · Rating 5 out of 5]

+JMJ+

This book made me realize that to have a spiritual director is like having a flashlight while walking through a dark tunnel to find your way to Heaven.

Through these letters St Padre Pio wrote to his spiritual directors you learn how to embrace your own suffering with joy, something that is so often hard to do, and needs to be encouraged in our world today.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of his letters are more regular and run of the mill, but the final one really spoke to me.

We are asked to live a life when death and eternal union are what we seek.

[Alan A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even Saints, while on this earth, were just as human as any other. This collection of St. Pio’s letter reveals a very human character that has both episodes of ordinary and extraordinary experiences. Some of his letters are very basic and tame, something that might not excite some readers. Others seem so mystical or maybe even hyperbolic, as is the common theme with many hagiographies, which would attract some or scandalize others.

Ultimately, I enjoyed reading this book and there are some letters, a very small amount, that I would like to go back to and enjoy reading again. Much of it, I think, did not resonate so much with me. But these letters that are so personal and private, are now public, to really get to know the Italian Capuchin who suffered much, labored much, and believed.

[Melissa Shmish · Rating 3 out of 5]

Intriguing peek inside the consciousness and experience of a 20th century mystic. Would have greatly benefited from more expansive annotation and a fresher translation.

[Adrian Tee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good glimpse of this great saint from a different perspective… his own words.

[Raquel Volcan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Livro que conquistou de vez meu coração para Padre Pio (Por um mês ele decidiu que seria meu diretor espiritual, tá bom pra vocês?)

[Rosalva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have this book and I take it out and read Padre Pio's letter to his confessor when ever I need to hear his words his advice or see that he struggled with life as well I find it sooo encouraging comforting. I treasure this book to me it's a priceless jewel :)

[Ruth Hdez · Rating 1 out of 5]

no me gusto la forma tan martir en la que el Padre Pio describia cada una de sus vivencias, y las otorgaba como puestas por Dios.

[LaDonna Pate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful insight into this dear saint's heartfelt thoughts and deepest spiritual truths! Couldn't put it down!

[Joyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intense journey into St Pio's interior life. So much suffering...