For many years, the PPFOA has generously assisted the Capuchin Friars in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy. At their request, we helped in the construction of the magnificent new church dedicated to Padre Pio, called the Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, by funding the cost of the baptistry. After many years of hard work and challenging circumstances, the new church opened on July 1, 2004.

Among Padre Pio’s most important works is La Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, the Home for the Relief of Suffering, dedicated in 1956. This hospital was Padre Pio’s dream to help the sick, the poor and those who are dying. It is located on the mountain in San Giovanni Rotondo, next to Our Lady of Grace Church and Friary. The PPFOA continues to regularly assist the hospital as it continues to provide the best medical care in the area.

Padre Pio’s hometown of Pietrelcina is a very special place of remembrance to all those who are devoted to Padre Pio. The PPFOA helps to maintain the parish church, Santa Maria degli Angeli, where Padre Pio celebrated his First Mass (and many more), and the Church of Santa Ana, where Padre Pio was baptized, confirmed and consecrated to Jesus. Through our efforts, both churches have been restored, but there is always more work to be done.

We continue to aid missionary priests serving the poor and needy in Mexico and in other countries. And we are proud to support and encourage religious vocations. Several years ago, we assisted Holy Apostles Seminary, nearby to our offices, in building a new chapel. The original chapel at the seminary was a shed that had been modified over the years.

At the PPFOA, everything we do is for the greater glory of God, His Church, and to honor Padre Pio as we keep alive his legacy of helping those most in need. Each day we pray that Padre Pio will intercede for the petitions and intentions of all those who seek his help.