Restoring All Things in Christ

Although he was born in 1835 and died in 1914, Giuseppe Sarto, later known at Pope Pius X has had a huge impact on Catholic life today.  He was a pastor for many years before being chosen as pope and thus was in touch with people; he had a special love for children, and is responsible for moving the age when they can receive Holy Communion from 12 to 7, a practice we still follow.  He had the Code of Canon Law codified and brought up to date, thus preparing the way for further revisions. He opened the way for Scripture study, which continues to blossom and affect our lives as the Word of God becomes more accessible.  His love for the poor foreshadows that of our Pope Francis, and as he approached his death, he declared:  "I was born poor, I have lived in poverty and I wish to die poor"
He was canonized on May 29, 1954, a year before St. Marcellin Champagnat, another champion of children and the poor, was beatified.
Pope St. Pius X had chosen the motto, "To Restore All Things in Christ" and devoted the energy of his papacy to that goal.  It stands as  challenge for us today in our era of secularism, atheism and  persecution.  We can take part in this renewal by living the great commandment of love of God and neighbor with our whole heart, strength and mind. (cf. Mt 22: 34-40). Pope St. Pius X and St. Marcellin, pray for us!
Bro. Rene