Book Review: Ħarist il-Fidi

Fr Joseph Ellul’s latest work, "Ħarist Il-Fidi: Il-Papa San Piju V u Żminijietu" (I have Kept the Faith: Pope Saint Pius V and his Times), is a remarkable contribution to Maltese religious literature. Published by Pubblikazzjonijiet Dumnikani, this book offers a nuanced and historically grounded look at a figure often misunderstood by modern sensibilities. It is a work of deep research and reflection that goes beyond simple historical narrative to present a complex and compelling portrait of a saint whose life was intertwined with the most significant challenges of the 16th century.

The Author, Fr. Joseph Ellul OP

The author, Fr Joseph Ellul, a Dominican friar with a background rooted in Islamic and inter-religious studies, brings a uniquely balanced and informed perspective to the life of Pope Pius V. Rather than presenting a simple hagiography, the book contextualizes the Pope within his tumultuous 16th-century world, which was marked by the Protestant Reformation from within and the formidable military might of the Ottoman Empire from without. The introduction, in particular, tackles the difficult reputation of Pius V as a harsh inquisitor and a ‘fanatical and ferocious’ leader. Ellul argues that judging past events by modern standards is a historical trap, leading to the very prejudices one condemns today. Instead, he presents Pius V as a providential figure whose strong will, unwavering faith, and fierce determination were not only necessary but divinely ordained for the Church in an era of immense political and religious upheaval. He was, in essence, the right man at the right time, a leader whose severe discipline was a direct response to a widespread crisis of faith and order.

The book delves deeply into the key aspects of Pius V's pontificate, focusing on his vigorous implementation of the reforms mandated by the Council of Trent. For decades, the Church had been plagued by moral, doctrinal, and liturgical corruption that had eroded its credibility and fueled the Protestant splintering. Pius V, as an ascetic friar-turned-pope, took these reforms to heart, making their execution the central mission of his papacy. He saw to the publication of the Roman Catechism, the definitive guide for Catholic teaching, and the Roman Missal and Roman Breviary, which standardized the liturgy and restored order and reverence to the Mass. These works were not mere bureaucratic exercises; they were a spiritual revitalization of the Church, providing a clear and unified structure for clergy and laity alike and laying the foundation for the Counter-Reformation. Ellul meticulously details how these seemingly internal reforms had a profound external impact, restoring the confidence of the faithful and solidifying the Church's position in a fractured Europe.

In addition to internal reform, Ellul also masterfully recounts the external threats faced by the Church and Europe, particularly from the encroaching Ottoman Empire. The book vividly portrays the immense fear and political instability that gripped Christendom as the Ottoman fleet menaced the Mediterranean. The pivotal moment is the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, a naval engagement that stands as a testament to Pius V’s courage and faith. The book explains how the Pope, acting as the primary moral and political force, was instrumental in forging the Holy League, a coalition of Christian states that finally united against the common enemy. Ellul highlights that while it was a military victory, Pius V attributed the triumph not to arms, but to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, instituting the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary to commemorate the event. This act solidified his legacy as a spiritual leader who believed in the power of faith and prayer to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Furthermore, the book touches upon the Pope’s special connection to Malta, a topic of great local significance. After the Great Siege of 1565, Pius V played a crucial role in providing financial and military aid for the rebuilding of the island and the establishment of Valletta as a fortified capital city. He decreed, through the Papal Bull Ex Debito Pastoralis Officii, the founding of the Church of Our Lady of Porto Salvo and St Dominic as the principal parish church of the new city.

This is a book that succeeds brilliantly in its aim: to present a well-rounded portrait of a complex saint, acknowledging his human failings while celebrating the strong faith that guided his mission. It is an essential and illuminating read for anyone interested in Church history, the formative events of the 16th century, and the remarkable legacy of a Pope who helped steer the Church through one of its darkest periods. Ellul’s work reminds us that heroes of faith are often products of their challenging times, and their actions must be understood in the context of the world they sought to sanctify.

The book is being sold for the price of €15 and may be purchased from all Catholic bookshops in Malta or by writing directly on hello@opmalta.org.