Memorial of Saint Pius X, Pope
(Ezekiel 37:1-14; Matthew 22:34-40)
If we are moved by today’s reading from Ezekiel, we are not the first to be so affected. Sixth century B.C. Jews in Babylon heard the words as the Lord’s a promise that they might return to their homeland. Christians have understood them for ages as people rising from sin to a vital life of charity. We also find in them hope for the resurrection of the dead at the end of time.
Pope St. Pius X, today’s patron, probably read the passage in a different way. The Church during his papacy at the turn of nineteenth century faced multiple challenges. The faithful often refused to receive Holy Communion. Church theologians were trending toward Protestant speculation of established doctrine. Also, both Canon Law and Church-state relations sorely needed mending. Pius dedicated his pontificate to reforming the Church in these areas so that it might enjoy ever abundant life.
We also should hear the words of Ezekiel as a summons to reinvigoration. We may be encouraged by a recent trend of young adults to the Church, but their numbers likely fall far short of the attrition of teens after Confirmation or of midlife Catholics losing interest in the Sacraments. Dry bones rising to new life inspire us to hope not only for eternal life but that the Church might sway the lives of all in the direction of the Lord.
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