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Saint Pius X (Giuseppe Sarto)

1835–1914

Saint Pius X (Giuseppe Sarto), 1835–1914

August 21

Giuseppe Sarto was born in Italy. He became a priest and a teacher. He loved children and wanted everyone to learn about Jesus and the Church. When he became Pope, he took the name Pius X. The X in his name means that he was the tenth Pope to take the name Pius. He did many things to show how important the Eucharist is. He encouraged Catholics to receive Holy Communion every day, even children. He knew the Sacraments help us stay close to God. He also had a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Pius X is the longest reigning Pope in the Church’s history, serving from 1846–1878. He convened the First Vatican Council in 1869, and proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception in 1854. Pius encouraged the use of beautiful church music and clear, simple homilies by the priest at Mass.

Discuss: When do you feel close to Jesus?

Activity
Holy Communion
Intrapersonal

Explain that besides encouraging Catholics to receive Holy Communion every day, Pope Saint Pius X also encouraged the use of beautiful Church music and clear, simple homilies by the priests at Mass.

  • Invite your child to write a prayer to Jesus about Holy Communion. Ask her/him to include the importance of receiving Holy Communion, what it means to her/him, how to honor the celebration, and how it changes us.
  • Pray the prayer together.