01 May - Pope Pius V

 

Pope Pius V, born Antonio Ghislieri, was the 225th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He was born on 17 January 1504, in Bosco Marengo, Italy, and he died on 01 May 1572.

Pius V is remembered as one of the most influential popes of the Counter-Reformation era. He ascended to the papacy in 1566 and served until his death in 1572. During his papacy, Pius V worked vigorously to combat heresy, uphold Catholic doctrine, and strengthen the authority of the papacy.

One of Pius V's most significant accomplishments was his role in the Council of Trent, a landmark ecumenical council of the Catholic Church that addressed the issues raised by the Protestant Reformation. Pius V implemented the reforms mandated by the Council of Trent, including measures to combat corruption within the Church, promote clerical discipline, and improve the education and training of clergy.

Pius V is also remembered for his efforts to defend Europe against the Ottoman Empire. He organized the Holy League, a coalition of Catholic states, which achieved a decisive victory over the Ottoman navy at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and established the feast of Our Lady of Victory, later renamed the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, to commemorate the event.

Pope Pius V was canonized as a saint by Pope Clement XI in 1712. He is venerated as a patron saint of liturgists, and his feast day is celebrated on April 30th.