Compiled by Anthony Chiffolo
Padre Pio was one of the most beloved and intriguing holy men of the 20th century. In this book his own words lead readers to Christmas with a heightened sense of the sacred. Reflections for each day--from the first Sunday of Advent until the end of the Christmas season--begin with selections from letters and messages of Padre Pio, followed by Scripture, prayer, a suggestion for an appropriate seasonal activity, and blessings.
Advent and Christmas Wisdom is ideal for those who want to enter more deeply into the mystery of Christ's Incarnation as they prepare room in their hearts for his birth. During this joyous season readers can experience the special closeness to God that Padre Pio felt.
From the Introduction:
Padre Pio knew with complete certainty that at all times his place was beside Jesus, Whether it be Jesus the suffering servant or Jesus the innocent babe. Providing some pre-Advent counsel, he wrote, "One thing only is necessary, to be close to Jesus..." This was his lifelong quest, and his premier advice to all of his spiritual children.
"Be close to Jesus." It is goo counsel for all of us as we experience another Advent. Perhaps in God's presence we are shy and reticent, or nervous and talkative, or fearful and belligerent, or brave and boastful. Does it really matter what we say or feel, or if we say or feel anything? Pio's continuing message to us is that only one thing counts: that we find a way to be with Jesus.
This Advent, let us join Padre Pio as he hastens to the God-Child, heeding the angels and following the star, to experience God's nearness, where anything and everything are possible.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
How to Use This Book
Part I: Readings for Advent
Part II: Readings for the Twelve Days of Christmas
Part III: Format for Nightly Prayer and Reading
Sources and Acknowledgments
About Anthony F. Chiffolo:
Anthony F. Chiffolo, editorial director of Praeger Publishers, has a master's degree in the Classics of Western Civilization from St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland. He is the author/compiler of numerous religion books, including At Prayer with the Saints, Be Mindful of Us: Prayers to the Saints, and Pope John XXIII: In My Own Words, all published by Liguori Publications. He was named Whitey Radio Author of the Year 2000 for his Liguori book Padre Pio: In My Own Words.
