EADING HISTORY is one of my favorite things to do. In particular, I love to take a particular YEAR and think about all the different things “in process” at that time. For instance, take the year 1905. It is interesting to learn what various people — let’s say, Pius X, Adrian Fortescue, Padre Pio, Josef Hofmann, Joseph Pothier, and Pius XII — were doing in 1905. It is interesting to contemplate what each one of those people was going through during 1905. The more one pays attention to dates, the greater “depth” of knowledge one has. I’ve read so many articles that only focus on one aspect of history without realizing life just isn’t that simple.
Speaking of Padre Pio, did you know he was drafted into the First World War? Did you know his father had to come to America to earn money for his education so he could be accepted to monastic life? Did you know both his parents were illiterate? Did you know he lived with them for a while even after becoming a priest (and, unless I’m wrong, a Seminary professor) due to his poor health?
I could go on and on. The life of Padre Pio is fascinating. I hope you’ll check it out, so we can enjoy it together!
