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Padre Pio was born in Italy in 1887 and was a priest and confessor. (“Padre” is “Father” in Italian.) He heard millions of confessions during his lifetime. Padre Pio had the gift of healing people and knowing what was in their hearts when they came to confession. He filled people’s hearts with peace and helped them to love God. By encouraging prayer and frequent confession, Padre Pio brought people back to God and the Catholic Church. He is the patron (September 23) of confessors.
Saints are real-life heroes of faith who inspire us by their virtues to become more like Christ. In the Saints and Me! series, these beautifully illustrated early-reader books tell the real stories of saints that come to life and connect with today’s children aged 4 to 9.
Barbara Yoffie has been in Catholic education for 35 years as both a primary grades classroom teacher and religion education coordinator. Currently, she is the coordinator of religious education at St. Clement of Rome Elementary School, St. Louis, MO. She is a well-known presenter on a variety of topics, including seasons of the Church year, saints, creative activities, and praying with children. Yoffie has a master’s degree in religious education administration from Loyola University, New Orleans, a bachelor’s degree in art education, and a certificate of religious studies, from Paul VI Institute, St. Louis. She is the author of several pamphlets and booklets on saints and choosing confirmation saints.
Jeff Albrecht has illustrated for Disney, Warner Bros., Marvel, DC Comics, and other entertainment companies. His animation has been seen on Cartoon Network. His Christian illustration credits include Master Books (A is for Adam, N is for Noah), Living Faith Kids, and Concordia Publishing House. He enjoys working in different styles from his studio in the St. Louis area.
