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A young man with Down syndrome has been recognized as the first "Angel of St. Pio" by the Saint Pio Foundation for his dedication to the saint and resilience in overcoming challenges. Eric Latcheran received this honor on December 4 at Casa Italiana in Washington, D.C., where Cardinal Christophe Pierre and Luciano Lamonarca presented him with a white and gold sash.
Lamonarca, founder and CEO of the St. Pio Foundation, explained that angels held significant importance in Padre Pio's life, emphasizing his devotion to guardian angels.
Padre Pio, born Francesco Forgione in 1887 in Pietrelcina, Italy, joined the Capuchin order at 15 and was ordained in 1910. During World War I, he served intermittently in the Italian Army’s medical corps but was discharged due to health issues. Returning to San Giovanni Rotondo, he received the Stigmata in 1918 and established Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza hospital. He spent long hours hearing confessions until his death in 1968 and was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2002.
The foundation aims to promote awareness of Padre Pio's legacy and has honored notable individuals like Andrea Bocelli and Gary Sinise. Lamonarca stated that recognizing individuals like Latcheran is essential because they teach others through their sufferings.
Latcheran expressed gratitude for being chosen for this recognition despite numerous medical challenges since birth. His mother Gina shared how faith helped them through difficult times, including a heart surgery where no blood transfusions were needed after praying for St. Pio's intercession.
Continuing a family tradition of devotion to St. Pio, Latcheran remains active within his Knights of Columbus council and hopes to inspire others through Saint Pio’s teachings.
In closing remarks attributed to Padre Pio, Latcheran said: “Pray, hope, and don’t worry.”
