Prayer groups from around Malta and Gozo and devotees of Padre Pio gathered at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu to commemorate the 100th anniversary when Padre Pio received the stigmata and the 50th anniversary of his death. Gozo Bishop Mario Grech, who led a concelebrated Mass assisted by prayer groups national director Fr Carm Dimech, OFM Cap and spiritual directors, said in his homily that when Jesus appeared to the two disciples on their way to Emmaus, their hearts were enlightened while He explained to them the Holy Scriptures. However, they only recognised him when He blessed the bread, broke it and passed it over to them.

As the two disciples, Padre Pio also recognised Jesus in his neighbour, the sick, the sinner and the needy. He was totally committed to love. Mgr Grech said all of us can find and recognise Jesus in our neighbour, by sharing our wealth with them and by supporting those who need our assistance.