The national shrine devoted to Saint Padre Pio in Batangas province hopes to achieve international renown, according to a new book. Based on the book "Enlarging the Space of Our Tent" published last Jan. 13, the national shrine is aiming for such a status.
It was said that the parish and national shrine of Saint Padre Pio in Sto. Tomas town is a physical example of the archdiocese's attempts "to enlarge its tent."
“This dream reflects the archdiocese’s desire to extend its influence far beyond its local and immediate surroundings and welcome people of diverse cultures and nationalities to experience the spiritual richness it offers,” the Archdiocese of Lipa said.
The Vatican will approve and designate it as an international shrine, making it a hallowed location for the Church.
"It seeks to serve as a beacon of unity, drawing followers from far and wide to participate in its solemn religious ceremonies of worship and healing and share in the collective faith journey,” the archdiocese added.
Fortified by time
Since the parish was founded in 2003, the church was declared an archdiocesan shrine in 2008. It was then recognized as a national shrine in 2015.
Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims have visited this site to seek God's blessings through the intercession of St. Padre Pio.
The Italian saint, who lived most of his life in a monastery in southern Italy, is also represented by many excellent relics in the shrine.
Padre Pio as a beacon of healing
One of the most venerated saints of the 20th century, Padre Pio has been renowned for his stigmata and healing.
Hundreds of devotees flocked to the shrine in 2018 to honor the saint when his heart relic was displayed there.
Antipolo City's Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage is the sole international shrine in the Philippines.
