Why Build the Shrine of Padre Pio in San Antonio?
This question is one we need answer in order to achieve the purposes outlined in Canon Law. When I envision our shrine I quickly reflect upon the words of Jesus when he spoke of the importance of going to an ‘out of the way place for prayer, whether it be in the middle of a metropolitan area or on the quiet hillside in the country. A shrine allows us to move for a period of time from our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods and church communities to a place of prayer, regardless if that form of prayer is reflective silence, celebration of the Eucharist, restoring one’s spiritual life in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, or adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This shrine can become a place to evangelize the marginalized and lapsed Catholic. All things listed above are the very ‘fiber’ of the spirituality of Padre Pio. We are first and foremost a parish church, which will offer a unique opportunity for people to come on pilgrimage to be sacramentally and spiritually renewed. Mass will be avai
