Julia Calandra-Lineberg

A graduate of Bishop Kenrick High School, Norristown, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Julia Calandra-Lineberg enhanced her formal education by studying several years with the Handmaids of Merciful Love, the Congregation founded by Blessed Mother Speranza di Gesù, at their Motherhouse in Collevalenza, Italy and in Rome.

She was instructed in the authentic teachings of the Catholic Faith while becoming proficient in both the Hospitality Industry and the Italian Language.

As the eldest daughter of the Calandra Family, Julia had the unique experience of witnessing firsthand the many incredible accomplishments of her parents, the late Vera M. and Harry E. Calandra, founders of the National Centre for Padre Pio. For nearly thirty years Julia enjoyed the privilege to serve as Vice President of the National Centre for Padre Pio, first under her mother Vera, and later under her father, Harry.

Since the death of her mother, Julia has been credited with being one of the most knowledgeable individuals on the life and spirituality of Saint Pio and over the years has been invited to speak in Colleges, Churches, Schools and at Catholic Conferences throughout the United States and Canada, as well to lead pilgrimages trips to Italy, which are second to none.

Julia has also appeared on television programs both local and international including EWTN and RAI Italian TV, and, as a guest, on nationwide radio programs sponsored by Relevant Radio, sharing with the faithful the authentic message of just who is this incredible gift from God, Saint Pio of Pietrelcina.

She has been blessed with the great privilege of meeting, knowing and even living with not only the friars who knew, lived with, and cared for Saint Pio, but also with those that beatified and canonized Saint Pio.

Julia was blessed with one son, Santino Pio Ciccarone, before her husband John E. Ciccarone was called home to God in 1996. Years later, Our Lord brought to their lives Stanley Lineberg; they wed in 2000, and the family happily resides in Boyertown, Pennsylvania.

Starting March 2024, Julia assumed the role as Chief Development Officer of the Saint Pio Foundation, in addition to offering speaking engagements around the country, on behalf of the foundation.