by fr. Francesco Scaramuzzi, OFM Cap.
When in July of 1970, the first number of the Voice of Padre Pio was printed, Father Bernardino of Siena – the Postulator General of the Capuchin Friars Order at the time- explained in the editorial, how, this journal’s origins was the result of a simple and spontaneous inspiration: to tell the world about Padre Pio and, at the same time, enable his Voice to reach all of his devotees.
From this simple idea began that continuous chronicle of voices that still today is alive and thriving and that sees the Capuchin Friars of the Foggia province still spreading the good news of the Gospel that gives meaning to life, via Saint of Pietrelcina an authentic interpreter.
The voice signifies for all the possibility to express and reveal oneself; to make known one’s own ideas and convictions; to give substance to one’s hopes, to recount one’s successes, dreams and defeats. Through the voice each one of us gives substance to ones states of soul, conversing, laughing, singing, crying or shouting. It is more than simply sound: it is a state of being and action that makes one audible and, hence, visible. Often the simple tone of voice is enough to demonstrate what is moving one within, or the emphasis of one’s words of one’s thoughts. The voice is so important that those who do not have one risk not being heard, and those not heard remain isolated, ending up among the marginalised simply because they have no voice. But the voice serves also to draw one’s mind from distractions; it gives names to things and calls them by name. Hence, it is also thanks to the voice that relations between people are possible, allowing us to recognise the other and to be recognised. It is not accidental that in the Gospel (cf. John 10, 7-14) the good Shepherd is recognised by His voice: a voice that is familiar and trustworthy, that stands out from the many others. We know how difficult it is today to recognise the voice of the true Shepherd among the many false ones who call for our attention and promising us life, well-being and happiness. It is easy to be fooled by charlatans and imposters, “by thieves and robbers.”
How can we recognise the true Shepherd’s voice among all these others? It is necessary to familiarise the ear. Padre Pio explains the way himself: “Humble yourself lovingly before God and men, because God speaks to the humble. Love silence because much talk is never without sin. Withdraw into yourself as much as you can, because in this way the Lord speaks freely to the soul, and the soul is more able to listen to His voice” (Letters III, p. 436).
During these many 47 years, The Voice of Padre Pio has been heard everywhere, giving substance, colour and savour to Christ’s words, guiding and reminding its readers of those matters that truly count. To this task many have devoted their minds and wills, familiarising the ears of listeners to the Truth of the Gospel.
The latest being Bro Mariano Di Vito, the director of this journal for the last seven years and who worked with commitment, fervour and expertise, contributing to its establishment and growth. The task has been entrusted to me now to continue making his voice heard. To mine will be added those of our writers, colleagues and also readers, who sincerely enamoured of Padre Pio and his teaching, will continue to disseminate his voice, that echoes that of His Master, Jesus Christ, who invites all to listen because He alone has the words of eternal life.