An utterly unique way to prepare for Good Friday and Easter.

I deliberately started this book on Ash Wednesday, not on the date of publication. I discovered Padre Pio some years ago and immediately drawn to his extraordinary life. The minute I saw this book; I realised that there was no better way of preparing for Good Friday than by taking part in each day’s readings and reflections. By sharing my review now, it will still allow you time to obtain this priceless book and start following Padra Pio as we make our way to Easter and Christ’s resurrection..

The author, Susan De Bartoli, has used Padre Pio’s letters to guide us on our daily journey. He was an extraordinary man who lived in severe pain because he presented with the stigmata which Jesus Christ had from the nails of the cross. The pain must have been excruciating and yet, Padre Pio managed to conduct his long life with the stigmata while still performing his duties as a priest, praying the rosary countless times a day.

The joy of this book is that it will be my way of making my way through lent each year from now on.

Rony

Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book from NetGalley to review.

Looking forward to reading this again during Lent.

I love the format of this book. With a reflection on the life of Padre Pio. With Day by Day quotes from Padre Pio, followed by a short amount of biographical information followed by a short reflection and a relevant prayer, as well as an Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be. This book will be a great companion for multiple Lent's, and with its portability and reasonable length, should be very possible to journey with during a busy Lenten season.

Definitely recommend this as well as "Welcoming The Christ Child with Padre Pio" which would be the Advent companion for this book.

I loved learning about this beautiful saint. Padre Pio is larger then life and his story and devotions are interesting even for non Catholics.

Carry the Cross with Padre Pio is inspiring, redemptive, and a little terrifying. Through his own words to beloved fathers, he pours out his heart and his sufferings. His writings are clear and show the common man the depths of his heart’s longing to know God. I have heard stories regarding the Stigmata and his experiences, but to hear it from Padre Pio himself is moving. An appropriate guide to accompany any seriously searching believer on their journey through Lent. There are prayers and reflections offered for each day’s readings as well.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

In this Lenten guide, we get a mini-biography about Padre Pio’s life as well as prayers and reflections inspired by his writings. Padre Pio is a perfect saint to call upon during the season of Lent. Even if you choose not to read in preparation for Easter (as I have), there is a lot to be gained in this reading.

If you’re unfamiliar with Padre Pio’s life, this book is a great introduction. Each day visits a time in this great saint’s life, often through the letters to his spiritual director. As a Lenten guide, it provides thoughtful meditation. I’ve read other similar guides, however, Padre Pio’s life and mystical gifts inspire a unique, and, I feel, deeper experience.

I will certainly be revisiting this during Lent.

Thanks to Ave Marie Press and NetGalley for providing a free digital ARC. I have also preordered two physical copies — one for my household and another as a gift.

A wonderful inspiring book celebrating the works and life of this wonderful saint . A great book to dip into when in need of prayers or direction

Bartoli draws on Padre Pio's journey through his suffering leading up to the stigmata. Through daily reflections, she highlights Padre Pio's suffering through his letters. Each day starts with a quote from a Sanit or a Catholic writer. The next section each of the daily reflections gives you a summary of his life along with an excerpt from his letter to Father Augustino. Each day ends with a reflection and prayer. After the prayer, you are asked to do one Our Father, One Hail Mary, and one Glory Be. Each day's entry should take less than 10 mins and bring you closer to Padre Pio, Jesus, and Mary. These are perfect Lenten reflections for a Catholic friend's library.