(May 1905 / October 1909)

Although the date when the church of "Santa Maria del Monte" was founded is not known, it is believed that it was originally used by feudal families as a burial place. The church was donated to the Capuchins on 25 May 1905 for them to better observe the rites of their religion and minister to the spiritual needs of the faithful. As a newly professed friar, in 1905 Padre Pio often went to Santa Maria Del Monte to help out with the holy rites, but as his poor physical condition and health required healthy mountain air, in October 1909 he was sent to the del Monte monastery, situated at an altitude of 800 metres.

"The fact that the holy child suffers and cries in his crib should teach us that suffering is a positive and commendable experience. His poverty is designed to teach us to renounce worldly goods and comforts; His love of the humble and poor should make us love poverty and prefer the company of the lowly and simple to the great of the world ". (Epist. N.-p. 720).