Padre Pio to Move

The body of Padre Pio, now known as San Pio da Pietrelcina, the saint renowned for his healing powers, is to be moved into a new crypt adjacent to his current resting place, the sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie where it has lain since 1968.

The announcement was made by the Capuchin monks and the archbishop of San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, this week and the saints remains will be relocated to the new San Pio church in the monastery grounds on the 19th April. The new basilica was blessed by Pope Benedict on his visit to Puglia last June.

Not everyone is happy about the move, with some commenting that the new church may be a touch too luxurious for the former Capuchin friar.