Spirituality

Embracing the Cross: An Example in Padre Pio

As Physicians, we strive to alleviate the suffering of others. However, only by embracing our own sufferings (and that of the Lord's Passion), can we sincerely assist in the healing process. Few knew this better than Saint Padre Pio, who himself endured poor health in addition to the stigmata. From his own suffering, he had deep compassion and understanding for the pain of others and thus more perfectly met the needs of the sick and vulnerable. On fire with this great insight, he founded La Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza (The House for the Relief of Suffering) that opened in Italy, in May 1956. Today, with over 1200 beds, La Casa is a highly-specialized medical facility. It serves as a training ground for thousands of doctors; is one of the most important centers of European clinical research, particularly in the fields of genetics and hereditary-familial disease; and offers 50 clinical specialties and greater than 4300 diagnostic and therapeutic practices.

Most importantly, however, the expansive facility is true to the heart of Padre Pio—it serves all of humanity, whether rich or poor and almost perfectly unites faith and science. Similar to its founder, the facility embraces suffering by embracing it in its entirety, and consequently is truly a House for its relief.