Aubrey Nativity O.

Yangzon BSP II
BS Psychology II Rel.Ed. IV

Reaction Paper on the Movie:

Padre Pio: The Miracle Man

The term "miracle" is notoriously difficult to describe. Miracles may be thought of as

manifestations of the supernatural. A miracle may also be described as a phenomenon in which
the heart obeys an internal force: God's will. Padre Pio's life was full of miracles, but they were
still spiritual in nature. As a result, Padre Pio urged people to give thanks to God, who is the only
source of miracles.

The Capuchin friar's deep faith, commitment, and deep spiritual care for others, as well as
his great compassion for the sick and suffering, are captured in this film. It shows incredible
information and events from Padre Pio's childhood to his fifty years as a friar.

I felt a mix of emotions after watching the film: sad, happy, encouraged, and consoled. I
was upset because I felt guilty for giving in to my human desires. As compared to the holy Padre
Pio's life, mine is so tainted and lacking in virtue and faith that I believe I could never achieve his
radical renunciation of worldly best aspects, much less even his holiness. Nonetheless, I was
pleased because I was once again able to learn about a modern-day saint. It serves as a reminder
that, despite many societies' declining faith and moral values, one can still become a saint. I am
relieved that there is still evidence that we can achieve holiness amid the evil that plagues the
world today.

I was also influenced in a variety of ways. One mode is that it provides me with a
compelling incentive to continue searching for holiness despite my many human flaws. I am also
inspired by Padre Pio's victory over the devil, who manifests himself in several ways. Right here
on Earth, human frailty can be combined with profound radicality, bringing endless rewards to
the fore.
Padre Pio is a worthy individual to aspire to, even if not fully. I am aware of my
shortcomings, and I do not believe I'll ever be as holy as he was. Padre Pio's life, on the other
hand, strikes me as a great example of how to accept Jesus' love into one's own life. Finally, I
was comforted after seeing that wonderful film because of the very pleasant ending: despite a
battle with ecclesiastics, members of his own congregation, and lay people, Padre Pio's true
martyrdom and holiness were recognized. The softening of the almost impregnable Inquisitor's
heart was the highlight of this spectacular turn of events.

In addition, the most moving part of the film, in my opinion, was when the Inquisitor, or
Grand Visitator of the Vatican, was finally persuaded of Padre Pio's genuine holiness, especially
the Stigmata. The mood changed drastically when the good padre Pio told him precisely what
happened during a pivotal incident in the Visitator's life—an encounter with a young soldier
about to die in battle, whom he denied repentance and absolution. The almost difficult task of
persuading him that Padre Pio is, after all, a genuine saint rather than a forgery of a Capuchin
monk started to fade away. Finally, he sobbed uncontrollably in front of the saint and confessed
his sin. When the Inquisitor hugged Padre Pio like a child and begged for forgiveness for his own
sins, it really struck me. It was a clear reminder of how I was saved from being completely
consumed by the evil of sin as a result of a hardened heart and conscience. In certain ways, the
Inquisitor reminded me of my own gentleness when it comes to spiritual subjects that seem too
trivial for a Christiregian like me.

Moreover, this quote from Padre Pio is a gentle reminder that we should not give up in
our prayers. God’s timing is perfect and worrying about the outcome of our situation will not do
any good. “Pray, wait, and do not worry. Worrying is useless. God is merciful and will listen to
your prayer… Prayer is the best weapon we have; it is the key to the heart of God. You should
speak to Jesus, not with your lips but with your heart.” Today, as we remember this modern
saint, let us lift our concerns to Jesus, not just with our lips, but with our hearts. Let us trust that
our prayers are being heard.