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 August,
Padre Pio Press Cordially Invites Its Readership to Join in Saying:
Litany of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
A Message for Overcoming Sin
OTHER VICES sometimes subside by beneficial surroundings; once opportunity, occasion, or matter of sin are removed, they slow down and diminish; but vanity penetrates the deserts along with the one who flees the external world. For it is animated by no other source than the flowering of virtue in the one it hunts. Whereas all other vices may diminish by mere lapse of time, for this one, length of years is no hindrance. Unless diligence is founded on skillful and prudent discernment, the virtues so diligently accumulated will only serve as […]
OTHER VICES sometimes subside by beneficial surroundings; once opportunity, occasion, or matter of sin are removed, they slow down and diminish; but vanity penetrates the deserts along with the one who flees the external world. For it is animated by no other source than the flowering of virtue in the one it hunts. Whereas all other vices may diminish by mere lapse of time, for this one, length of years is no hindrance. Unless diligence is founded on skillful and prudent discernment, the virtues so diligently accumulated will only serve as […]
Feast of the Holy Family — Sermon by Fr. Ermatinger
Ludovico Mazzolino, 1524
Translation of the Epistle for the Feast of the Holy Family (Colossians 3:12-17)
Brethren: Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, patience. Bear with one another and forgive one another, if anyone has a grievance against any other; even as the Lord has forgiven you, so also do you forgive. But above all these things have charity, which is the bond of perfection. And may the peace of Christ reign in your hearts; unto that […]
Feast of the Holy Family – A Message From St. Augustine
Translation From the Holy Gospel According to Luke (2:42-52)
When Jesus was twelve years old, they going up into Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast, and having fulfilled the days, when they returned, the Child Jesus remained in Jerusalem, and His parents knew it not. And thinking that He was in the company, they came a day’s journey, and sought Him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances. And not finding Him, they returned into Jerusalem, seeking Him. And it came to pass that after three days they found Him in the Temple, sitting in the midst […]