Hundreds turn out for Padre Pio relics in Kerry

'Padre Pio is extremely important in my life. He's done a lot for me and I'm here in thanksgiving'

Patricia Quirk at the Mass during the handover of the Padre Pio glove to the Parish of Castleisland in Co Kerry at the Church of Saints Stephen and John. Pictures: Domnick Walsh / Eye Focus

The church is otherwise silent as Padre Pio’s deep voice reverberates through the building, his strong Italian accent echoing through the speakers as a recording is played from a phone.

Hushed worshippers rush to take their seats, swiftly discarding damp gloves, flicking pieces of sleet from their hair as they shelter from the hailstorm engulfing Castleisland.