On Monday, Sept. 23, the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Pius of Pietrelcina, more commonly known as Padre Pio. He was an Italian Capuchin friar, who was also a priest, stigmatist and mystic. A deeply holy man, he was sought out by people from all over the world, to have him hear their confessions and to give them the guidance that they needed. Padre Pio had the gift of “reading souls,” which means that he could see more clearly than the individuals themselves what their sinfulness was and how they needed to be converted. He was also known for being able to bi-locate and levitate. Perhaps he is most known for bearing the stigmata, the wounds of Jesus on his body.

Cosmos and Damian were twin brothers, who were doctors who ministered to the needy for free. They were third-century Arabs, who were promoters of the Christian faith, and who were martyred because of their faith. The Church celebrates them this Thursday, Sept. 26.

Vincent was born in 1581 to a peasant family in France.  He became a priest and founded a religious order, now known as the Vincentians. He was dedicated to the service of the poor and to the spiritual renewal of the clergy.
    
Most of us know at least a little about St. Vincent de Paul because of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which serves the poor and needy. We have a very active St. Vincent de Paul here at Mother of God.    
    
We celebrate the feast of St. Vincent on Friday, Sept. 27.