(Optional) Memorial of Saint Pius V, pope
(Acts 5:17-26; John 3:16-21)
The world awaiting the election of a new pope gives reason
to consider the achievements of a former one celebrated today. Pope St. Pius V was consecrated pope shortly
after the reforming Council of Trent. He
led the Church only six years but accomplished much of the direly needed reform
envisaged by the Council. His formation
as a Dominican friar strengthened his resolve to undo the courtly excesses that
still surrounded the papacy. He also
published a catechism, provided uniformity to liturgy, and prioritized help to
the poor. Pius has been criticized for
his excommunication of the English monarch, but on the Eastern front he was
responsible for stopping the Turkish intrusion into Europe.
In today’s first reading Peter and the other apostles also show
resolve to implement the greatest religious reform ever. Despite warnings from Jewish leaders not to
preach Jesus Christ, they continued to tell all Jerusalem about salvation in
his name. Of course, the Lord assisted their
efforts. Not only were they liberated
from prison, but they were also empowered to win the hearts and minds of many Jerusalemites.
Recent popes have been so successful that the papacy enjoys
high stature in the world. Practically,
this means that the one who fills the office has grave responsibilities. He must seek the reunification of Christian
communities, maintain orthodoxy, model holiness, and pursue reconciliation and
peace among peoples. No matter who is
elected the 267th pope, he needs our prayers.
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