“Of all human pursuits, the pursuit of wisdom is the most perfect, the most sublime, the most useful, and the most agreeable.”

- St. Thomas Aquinas

We live in a society of high academic standards; a college degree is expected for most jobs and many require a Master’s degree, expertise is sought after and bragged about. However, few have taken the time to learn their Faith beyond an 8th grade level.

Padre Pio Academy seeks to provide adults with opportunities to learn Catholic theology and philosophy to fill the religious education gap of the modern Catholic.

Unlike the studying of a book, our engaging classes and lectures will provide an opportunity for members to ask questions as well as form friendships with fellow Catholics looking to acquire the same foundation of faith. We understand that time is scarce and that the human person needs leisure and relaxation, which is why a glass of wine and a snack will be available at classes and most events.

Upcoming Courses & Events

After spending six years discerning a vocation in religious life, I discovered my calling was to educate the faithful as a family man. My years in religious life prepared me both spiritually and intellectually for this vocation and has profoundly shaped the way I live and look at the world.

On top of my personal study, and mentors in religious life, I received a major in philosophy and theology as well as a master’s degree  in philosophy. It is my great  aspiration to educate people about the faith, so that our Holy Mother Church may be loved for her great beauty and her doctrine may be easily defended.

I have found this goal is most easily obtained through the teachings of the Angelic Doctor, St. Thomas Aquinas;  for he is the intellectual foundation upon which I have come to a clear and profound understanding of the Catholic faith.

This love of Thomism has also led me to great admiration for the greatest modern-day Thomistic theologian, Fr. Reginald Garriogu Lagrange.

-Perry Smith