Padre Pio Shrine

As we rode a taxi going back to our host family for 2015 Papal Visit I chanced to see a large billboard bearing a picture of a praying Padre Pio and my reaction was: 'Oh my gosh!!!' Upon seeing the sign I promised to myself that I will never let any chance to hinder me from going. The shrine of Padre Pio in Libis, Quezon city was really one of my dream and this experience is a dream come true.

Under the canopy of high rising buildings in Libis, Quezon City is this humble shrine dedicated to the humble servant of the Lord whose fame became inevitable worldwide. This humble shrine is patterned to the convent and chapel housing the brotherhood of men in Italy whose one member became so famous because of his miracles and stigmata. His is the Padre Pio of the Franciscan Capuchins.

The shrine of Padre Pio in Libis is a 'private' donation or devotion by the Rodriguez family after a miracle performed by Padre Pio to one of the members. After that petition answered, the family feeling the urge of return and spreading the devotion to a more devotees put up and maintain this shrine.

The front facade of the shrine was patterned to the original Church and convent of Our Lady of Grace in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy where the saint's last days where spent blessing people. Inside this chapel one can see scores of letters of testimony testifying to the cures and miracles performed by the wonder-worker.

Devotees also anonymously testify to the efficacy of this saint through the rosaries they hang in the shrine. Thousands of beads are now hanging on the grills, statues and crosses inside the shrine.

The shrine opens its doors 7 days a week for pilgrims visiting the great Padre Pio.