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In a remarkable event amidst Spain’s recent catastrophic flooding, the church of Saint Anthony of Padua in Catarroja emerged unscathed, seemingly shielded by an extraordinary force. With destructive floodwaters battering Valencia, this event has drawn widespread attention, and many attribute the church’s preservation to the intercession of Padre Pio.
The severe storm, DANA, brought unprecedented rainfall to Valencia, submerging cities in torrents of water and mud. Roads became rivers, vehicles were swept away, and over 44,000 cars and 21,000 homes were damaged. In Catarroja, one of the most affected areas, chaos reigned as floodwaters engulfed the town. Yet, remarkably, one building stood untouched amidst the devastation: the church of Saint Anthony of Padua.
Just two weeks before the storm, Blanca Llantada, sister of the parish priest, gifted the church a precious relic of Padre Pio—a drop of his blood contained in a small display case. Upon offering it, Blanca remarked that the parish needed the protection of a saint. Although her brother, the parish priest, was initially surprised, he accepted it gratefully.
Only a week after this gift, the storm struck. When Blanca reached out to her brother, fearing the worst, he shared a surprising message: “Padre Pio protected the parish.” Unlike other churches in the area, which sustained severe damage, Saint Anthony of Padua’s church remained miraculously untouched.
Photographs of the church reveal an astonishing sight. Mud and debris surround the church exterior, yet the interior remains pristine. No glass was shattered, no mud infiltrated, and even the entrance and adjoining rooms were immaculate. Observers have likened it to a protective bubble encasing the church, sparing it from the chaos outside.
The community views this as nothing short of a miracle, a sign of divine intervention through Padre Pio’s relic. Local residents and parishioners are left in awe, contemplating the power of Padre Pio’s intercession.
Nearby, another remarkable story unfolded in the parish of San Miguel. While floodwaters rose rapidly, worshippers in perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament managed to protect it and the statue of Saint Joseph, even as water reached their chests. They prayed throughout the night, with a sense of peace amidst the turmoil. An even more dramatic moment came when a seemingly locked door opened after prayer, allowing them to escape to safety.
These events have offered hope to a community grappling with significant losses and suffering. For many, these stories serve as a reminder of Providence, of the importance of prayer, and of the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity.
The survival of the church in Catarroja amid such destruction has sparked widespread reflection on the need for prayer, devotion, and spiritual preparation. The faithful view this as a message from Providence, encouraging people to seek protection through prayer and to turn to saints like Padre Pio for guidance and intercession.
This extraordinary preservation of Saint Anthony of Padua’s church reminds us of faith’s power and resilience. While the storm left unimaginable devastation, this protected space serves as a symbol of hope and divine care. For those impacted by DANA, Padre Pio’s intercession has offered solace and inspiration, a testament to the belief that even in times of disaster, the faithful are never alone.
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