Named by Boston Archbishop Richard J. Cushing, St. Pius X Parish has a compelling story. It began shortly after Pope Pius X’s canonization. The church stands as a testament to faith and community.
St. Pius X’s story starts with Giuseppe Melchiorre Sarto. He was born in 1835 and later became Pope Pius X. He was known as the Pope of the Blessed Sacrament. He emphasized the Eucharist. Pius X encouraged frequent Holy Communion. He said Holy Communion is the shortest and safest way to Heaven. He also emphasized Reconciliation so that Holy Communion would be received worthily. Pope Pius X died in 1914. He was canonized in 1954.
Within a month of his canonization, the Archdiocese of Boston established St. Pius X Parish. This fledgling parish was on the Hyde Park/Milton line. June 6, 1954, marked its official beginning. Property was purchased on Wolcott Road in Milton. Construction began. The first Mass was held in the Church Hall on December 18, 1954. By Easter Sunday 1955, the upper church was complete. The hall then served as overflow space.
Reverend John Joseph Sullivan was the first pastor of St. Pius X. He made a lasting impact on the young parish. Sadly, he died in 1956. Monsignor Edward Desmond succeeded him from 1956 to 1967. After him, Monsignor William Conley served briefly.
Father David M. Burke guided St. Pius X from 1968 to 2007. The parish faced closure in 2004, but survived. The clergy abuse scandal and Father Burke’s death followed. In 2007, Father Peter P. Nolan became temporary administrator. He was also pastor of Most Precious Blood Parish.
St. Pius X continues to serve the community. It ministers to families in Hyde Park and Milton. This includes Fuller Village, Fairmount Housing Development, and Curry College. The parish is grateful for the help of various religious orders. These include the Capuchin Fathers, Columban Fathers, Oblates, Jesuits and SMA Fathers. They have supported St. Pius X for over 60 years.
In 2014, Father Nolan retired. St. Pius X joined St. Anne’s in Readville. Together with Most Precious Blood, they formed a collaborative. Father Ronald Coyne was appointed pastor. Today, you can attend Mass here. The times are Saturday at 4:00 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.. Weekday Masses are Tuesday and Friday at 9:00 a.m.
St. Pius X stands as a beacon of faith. It shows resilience and community spirit. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Pope St. Pius X. The parish continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of its parishioners. It embodies the spirit of its founder. Remember Pope Pius X’s words. Holy Communion is the shortest and safest way to Heaven.