maculate is one of Padre Pio's few published writings, penned before he was forbidden by the Church to publish or to engage in correspondence--this for fear a cult would arise around him. Here we encounter a profound spiritual penetration into the mystery of Mary's unique and sublime role in our salvation. Though brief, it can be read over and over with great benefit since it is -just as the title suggests--both a meditation and a prayer on the meaning of Mary. This booklet also contains a brief sketch of Padre Pio's life and numerous edifying pictures of this saintly stigmatist.