3303 Urban Crest Dr
San Antonio, TX 78209
210-824-0139; email: stpiusx@stpiusxsa.org
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Saints and Symbols
The saints and symbols represented in St. Pius X Church have been specially chosen to reflect the universal, as well as the particular, aspects of our parish. We are reminded that our parish family has roots which bind us to both Testaments of the Scripture.
However, symbols are only effective if they are understood, so this virtual tour has been designed to explain and enhance the rich Christian symbolism which adorns our church.
Traditionally, the major themes in Christian art revolve around events in the Sacred Scriptures and the lives of the saints. Of particular importance and prominence in our church are scenes from the Old Testament and the lives of both Jesus and His mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary.These themes are evident throughout St. Pius X Church.
Outside the Church
Across the front of the church are
thirteen columns, twelve representing the Apostles and the center column representing Christ, who is the center of our lives. This central column supports a crucifix, the principal Christian symbol which reminds us that by His suffering and death we are brought to new life in Him.
Directly beneath the crucifix is the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, one of the most sacred parts of our building: it houses the Living God as did the Ark of the Covenant. It was specifically designed in accordance with the Bishop’s Committee on the Liturgy in 1978 to be a separate place for reservation of the Eucharist. It is a zone of silence for prayer, meditation, and daily mass.
House Church
Above the Doors leading into the
sanctuary is the Latin phrase "
Domus Ecclesiae", which means "house church." Early Christians hosted the celebration of the Eucharist in their homes. They had to do so secretly and quietly to avoid those who would persecute them and celebrated their Faith in Christ with a true spirit of community and fellowship with Christ and with one another.
Today, we are blessed to be able to freely celebrate our faith publicly in church buildings such as ours at St. Pius X. Continuing the tradition that began over 2,000 years ago, we continue to dine together with a spirit of community and fellowship at the Table of the Lord in the Eucharistic Celebration. Through this communion with one another, united in Christ, we become one body, one community, and one family. St. Pius X is, indeed, our house church!