Instructions for Lent from Padre Pio
SPIRITUAL PREPARATION
Before beginning the 7-day Lenten journey, it is important to prepare yourself spiritually to receive the graces of this special period of prayer.
Confession: If possible, receive the sacrament of confession before starting the Lent, to begin with a purified heart.
Intention: Clearly define the special grace you wish to ask for during these 7 days. Write it down on paper to keep it in mind.
Preparatory Fasting: If your health allows, consider doing a small fast the day before the Lent begins (such as abstaining from meat, sweets, or social media).
Prior Study: Dedicate a few moments to learn more about Saint Padre Pio and his devotion to the guardian angel.
“Pray, have faith, and do not worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.” — Saint Padre Pio
RECOMMENDED TIMES
Choosing the ideal time for your daily prayers contributes significantly to the effectiveness of your Lent. We recommend the following times:
The “Golden Hour” – upon waking, the mind is more receptive and less distracted by the concerns of the day. Padre Pio began his prayers at 4 AM.
Before sleeping, this is a moment of silence and reflection, allowing for deeper prayer and a blessed sleep.
Traditionally, the time to pray the Angelus is considered a special moment for communication with the angels.
Try to keep the same time every day to create a regular prayer habit. Set an alarm on your phone as a reminder and put it on “do not disturb” mode during your prayer time.
PRAYER ENVIRONMENT
The environment where you pray directly influences the quality of your prayer. Create a space that invites contemplation:
Specific Place: Set aside a small corner in your home specifically for prayer. It doesn’t have to be large—just a space dedicated exclusively to this purpose.
Eliminate Distractions: Turn off the TV, computer, and phone. Let your family know you need a few minutes of silence.
Proper Lighting: Prefer natural light or candles instead of bright lights. Dim lighting helps create a contemplative atmosphere.
Moderate Comfort: Use a comfortable chair or cushion, but avoid positions that might lead to sleep.
Sacred Symbols: Have a crucifix, an image of Padre Pio, and of your guardian angel in your prayer space.
“The place of prayer does not matter much; what matters is that we pray with complete trust, deep faith, and burning love.” — Saint Padre Pio
PRAYER ENVIRONMENT
The environment where you pray directly influences the quality of your prayer. Create a space that invites contemplation:
For the recommended readings on each day of Lent.
Symbolizes divine light and angelic presence. Light it during your prayers.
To write down inspirations, graces received, and experiences during the Lenten journey.
Padre Pio always carried his rosary and called it “his weapon.”
To help with focus and to invoke his intercession.
HOW TO PRAY THE PRAYERS
Here is the translation, maintaining the structure and meaning:
Sign of the Cross: Always begin with the Sign of the Cross, invoking the Holy Trinity.
Invocation to the Holy Spirit: Ask for the illumination of the Holy Spirit before starting your prayer.
Slow Reading: Read each prayer slowly, savoring the words and allowing them to penetrate your heart.
Silent Pauses: Take pauses at key moments in the prayer to internalize what you have just prayed.
Conclusion: Always end with an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be, thanking God, Our Lady, and Saint Padre Pio.
Padre Pio taught a simple and profound way to pray:
1. Outer and inner silence (calming body and mind)
2. Confident dialogue with God as a friend
3. Sincere humility (acknowledging your dependence on God)
4. Perseverance in times of spiritual dryness
MAXIMIZING SPIRITUAL BENEFITS
To obtain the greatest fruits from this 7-day journey, consider these complementary practices:
Mass and Eucharist: If possible, attend daily Mass or at least on Sundays during Lent.
Charity: Perform an act of charity each day, dedicating it to your specific intention.
Complementary Readings: Read excerpts from the writings or biography of Saint Padre Pio to deepen your connection with him.
Prayer Partner: Find a friend or family member to pray with or share your experiences.
Perseverance: Commit to completing the 7 days without interruption, even if you encounter difficulties.
“Prayer is the best weapon we have; it is the key that opens the heart of God.” — Saint Padre Pio