Bro Pius Kallang, OFM Cap
JOHOR – More than 1,200 pilgrims and devotees from Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia gathered at the Sanctuary of St Pio to celebrate the Solemnity of St Pio of Pietrelcina, marking a week filled with prayer, unity, and spiritual renewal.
The celebration began with a three-day Triduum, Sep 18-20, at the Church of the Holy Family, Ulu Tiram. Each evening focused on an aspect of St Pio’s life — as a man of prayer, hope, trust, and mercy. The reflections were led by Friar Michael Raymond, OFM Cap, whose Franciscan simplicity and spiritual depth drew the faithful into a deeper encounter with God.
On the feast day itself, Sep 21, a solemn Mass was celebrated, followed by the sharing of testimonies from pilgrims. Among the most moving was that of Jessie Khaw, who shared how she was miraculously healed of chronic asthma after assisting with the relic of St Pio earlier this year.
“I hadn’t eaten cold food or been in crowded areas for 30 years due to asthma. After helping carry Padre Pio’s relic, I noticed my symptoms were gone. I even had ice cream, and nothing happened! It’s a miracle. I’m truly grateful to Padre Pio,” said Jessie.
The feast day was made possible through the collaboration of three parishes — Church of Christ the King, Kulai; Church of the Immaculate Conception, Johor Bahru; and Church of the Holy Family, Ulu Tiram — with volunteers also traveling from as far as Penang and Kuala Lumpur. This spirit of cooperation reflected the synodal call of the Church to journey together in faith and service.
Visit the St Pio Spirituality Centre
For those seeking a deeper encounter with God throughout the year, the St Pio Spirituality Centre in Ulu Tiram is open to all. Nestled in a serene natural setting, it offers space for personal retreats, spiritual direction, and prayer, rooted in the legacy of St Pio and the Capuchin Franciscan Friars.
For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact:
Fr Matthews Joe, OFM Cap.
Tel: +6012-290-0547
Add: St Pio Spirituality Centre, Ulu Tiram, Johor
Experience the peace, healing, and grace that continue to flow through the intercession of St Pio. – Herald Malaysia
