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New Zealand Tablet, Volume II, Issue 68, 15 August 1874, Page 13

Three centuries ago the Ottoman Empire was in Ml vigor. From its capital of Constantinople ifcj seemed desirous- of ruling theworld. Christendom and civilization were about to be subjected to the rub of the Oriental. Asia, Egypt, and Africa were under it* sway, and many provinces of Europe had already bowed down before the armies which marched to> victory uuder the banner of the Crescent. The fleets of the Turk hovered around the coasts of Italy, and threat! ened Malta, while they had firee course on the confines «f the lonic, Adriatic, and Mediterranean Seas.. In this serious moment, whejj dauger filled the air, and when the greatest effort was demanded, tha* Sovereign Pontiff Pius V., was found eqjua.l to the occasion. The Spaniards and the Italians united their forces. Venice supplied 121 ship 3or galleys in a total of 243, and a force of 41.0J0 between soldiers, marines and rovers. Spain 51 ships- and 15\900 men j theremainder, 27,020 men, were supplied by the Pope and tke other Status of Italy. On the 7th of October, 1571, the Battle of Lepanto Jecided the fate of Western civilization. By this- great Christian victory the Ottoman Power was shaken to its basis, and Christendom saved from the evil rule of Mahotaetauisin. No wonder, therefore, that the memory of this Popo, who preserved for Europe the glorious heritage of the Faith, should be a memory dear to Pius IX. and theCatholic world. Every individual rejoioiiig iv the mmc of Christian; ha* cause to bless the memory an>l be gnteful for the groat act of lit. Pius V, Therefore, the atli of Mi*y > i* a- specul festival in. Rome*.