The movement of the human soul, and human society in general, from its fallen chaotic state towards divine order is at the heart of the Blog of Padre Pio Press. Writings, ponderings, and reflections on this movement of the soul are authored by Fr. Cliff Ermatinger and by the occasional Guest Contributor. The articles and recordings are relegated to the following areas:
Throughout the Month of May,
Padre Pio Press Cordially Invites Its Readership to Join In Saying:
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Homily for a Nuptial Mass — by Fr. Ermatinger
Transcription Coming Soon.
The Wedding At Cana, Paolo Veronese, 1562
St. Augustine, How Should We Receive God’s Gifts?
Question 53
How can we receive what God bestows graciously?
The faith-filled man begins to treat this world with indifference. Suddenly he is not lifted up when prosperity comes his way, nor is he crushed under adversity, but he learns to praise God in all things…We should receive it all with God’s praise in our mouths, regardless of the nature of the gift, because we praise the Giver, not the gift.
from St. Augustine Answers 101 Questions on Prayer by Fr. Ermatinger
Though it be that our wrestling is not against flesh and blood; but against principalities and power, against the rulers of the world […]
St. Augustine, How Can We Have God More Readily Answer Our Prayers?
Question 52
What makes our prayer of petition more efficacious?
“By fasting, long watches, and every type of mortification of the body, prayer is supported (Tob. 12:8).” Each should do what she can… The one who can accomplish less should not hold the others back. The one who can accomplish more should not lord it over those who cannot… strive in prayer to be victorious in overcoming this world. Pray with hope, pray with faith and love. Pray with perseverance and patience.
from St. Augustine Answers 101 Questions on Prayer by Fr. Ermatinger
When a person makes a petition to obtain […]
Eighth Sunday After Pentecost — Homily by Fr. Ermatinger
Parable of the Unjust Steward, A.N. Mironov, 2021
Transcription of Homily
Translation of the Epistle for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost.
We are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh, you shall die: but if by the Spirit you mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live. For whosoever are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For you have not received the spirit of bondage again in fear; but […]