Chronology of the life and sainthood of Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina

< 25 May, 1887 > 

Born to Grazio Mario Forgione and Maria Giuseppa Di Nunzio Forgione in Pietrelcina, Italia and was name Francesco Forgione.

< 6 January, 1903 > 

At the age of 15 years, he enters the Franciscan novitiate 

(OFM Cap.) in Morcone. 

< 22 January, 1904 > 

Professes as a Franciscan, he took the Franciscan habit 

and the name of Fra (Friar) Pio.

< 10 August, 1910 >  

Priestly ordination in by Archbishop Paolo Schinosi 

at the Cathedral of Benevento.  Four days later, 

he offered his first Mass 

at the parish church of Our Lady of the Angels.

< 20 September, 1918 > 

Receives the stigmata 

(bodily marks, pain, and bleeding in locations corresponding to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ).

< 1923 - 1933 > 

He was prohibited from celebrating Mass in public and from communicating with his spiritual children; victim of calumny.

< 1947 > 

The prayer groups of Padre Pio begin.

< 5 May, 1956 > 

Inauguration of the house "Sollievo della Sofferenza" 

(alleviating suffering). 

< 23 September, 1968 > 

Passes away in San Giovanni Rotondo.

< 21 December, 1998 > 

Recognition of his first miracle.

< 2 May, 1999 > 

Beatification in Vatican by Pope John Paul II

< 20 December, 2001 > 

Recognition of second miracle.

< 16 June, 2002 > 

Canonization in the Vatican by  Pope John Paul II.