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Pope John Paul II died after a long struggle against crippling infirmity which inspired Christians the world over, ending a tumultuous 26-year reign that shaped world politics and plunging 1.1 billion Roman Catholics into mourning.
Pope John Paul II died yesterday night. It wasn't a surprise, he has been sick for a while. In a way, many people (myself included) were just waiting for the moment when it would happen.
Now that it has, it's a little surreal. I really don't remember a time when Pope John Paul wasn't the pope. I remember as a child when he came to the US, and he actually had his motorcade go through my neighborhood (I grew up in a predominantly Polish neighborhood). My parents were so excited, there were so many people there, waiting to see the leader of their faith, the person who was as close to God as you can get. Watching him come by was a blur, all I remember was screaming and flashbulbs. My dad has pictures of it somewhere.
Dave has also seen the pope, when he was in Italy on vacation with his family. His brother, Justin, actually talked to the pope as he was visiting the people on the tour.
Twenty-five years, what an incredible reign. He seemed like a good, gentle soul, who was knowledgeable and kept up with the events in the world. Hip, too - does anyone remember the breakdancers at the Vatican? That's probably my favorite Pope moment.
During his pontificate -- the third longest in 2,000 years of Christianity -- he was a master at reaching the masses through the media, displaying public relations skills unknown to his predecessors while at home at the Vatican, as well as on his visits to 129 countries.from Asia - AFP
So what do we do now? It's weird, I feel like we're without a leader. The Cardinal candidates are in enclave at the Vatican, and won't come out until they choose a new Pope. Anyone who's read 'Angels and Demons' knows how cool and secretive the whole process is.
Didn't really know him, but I'll miss him. He was a great leader.
Posted by Yano at April 2, 2005 05:19 PMwell said. =) I'm Polish and Catholic and my mom and I went to church on Sunday, it felt good.
I still read your blog - I've just been swamped with school lately. =P
Posted by: Stephani on April 4, 2005 02:46 PMI read "Angels and Demons" and it was a spook. But I do believe that there is a Higher Power (if you will) that guides our Destinies. The right person will be choosen as the new Holy Father.
Posted by: SusanG on April 4, 2005 07:17 PM
