Reforming the Church with Pius V – Apr 30 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence
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Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Apr 30, 2025, on St. Pius V’s life, focusing on his reforms, leadership in the Battle of Lepanto, and enduring contributions to the Catholic Church.
Father recounts the life of Saint Pius V, born Michael Ghislieri in 1504, who exemplified humility and zeal (1 Peter 5:6). From a shepherd to a Dominican priest, he taught theology and served as prior, embodying love for truth (John 8:32). As a leader in the Roman Inquisition, he combated heresy, reflecting the Church’s call to guard the faith (2 Timothy 1:14). Appointed bishop, cardinal, and pope in 1566, he implemented the Council of Trent’s reforms, ensuring bishops resided in their dioceses and priests were trained (CCC 1596). He published the Roman Catechism (CCC 9), Breviary, and Missal, restoring liturgical purity (CCC 1154). His leadership in the Holy League led to the 1571 Battle of Lepanto victory, attributed to rosary prayers (CCC 971). Despite famine and illness, he cared for the sick, living out charity (1 John 3:18). Pius V reduced papal expenses and lived ascetically, wearing the Dominican habit (CCC 2015). Facing death in 1572, he prayed for patience (James 1:4) and urged cardinals to elect a zealous successor for Christendom’s good (CCC 181). His legacy endures in the Church’s liturgy and devotion to Mary (CCC 2677). Father encourages praying for wise papal election in the upcoming conclave, echoing Pius V’s commitment to God’s glory.
For Further Reading:
1 Peter 5:6 - NAB - Humble yourselves under God’s hand - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1peter/5?6
John 8:32 - NAB - Truth will set you free - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/john/8?32
2 Timothy 1:14 - NAB - Guard the deposit of faith - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/2timothy/1?14
1 John 3:18 - NAB - Love in deed and truth - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1john/3?18
James 1:4 - NAB - Patience leads to perfection - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/james/1?4
Catechism of the Catholic Church #9 - The Roman Catechism’s purpose - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/9.htm
Catechism of the Catholic Church #1154 - Liturgical reform and orthodoxy - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/1154.htm
Catechism of the Catholic Church #971 - Devotion to Mary - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/971.htm
Wikipedia - Pope Pius V - Biography of Pius V - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Pius_V
Catholic Encyclopedia - Pius V - Detailed life and papacy - https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12130a.htm
00:00 – Introduction
00:08 – Saint Pius V’s Early Life
00:38 – Dominican Priesthood
01:10 – Church Reforms Begin
01:50 – Roman Inquisition Role
02:57 – Cardinal and Bishop
04:14 – Papal Election Struggles
05:25 – Pius V’s Papacy Begins
06:27 – Social and Moral Reforms
07:16 – Council of Trent Reforms
08:17 – Battle of Lepanto
10:27 – Final Days and Legacy
Ave Maria!
Mass: St. Pius V - Opt Mem - http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=5515
Readings: Wednesday 2nd Week of Easter - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/043025.cfm
1st: act 5:17-26
Resp: psa 34:2-9
Gsp: joh 3:16-21
More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1065&r=1698
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