A Time of
Sadness and a Celebration of Hope
(Posted
on April 2, 2005)
“…Continue to pray for me so that I faithfully
carry out my service to the Church for as long as God wants.” These
words, spoken to the bishops and cardinals gathered in Rome to
celebrate the 25th Anniversary of John Paul’s succession
to the papacy, echoed his commitment, his courage, and his
faithfulness to the will of God. Although God has called Pope John
Paul II home, his earthly legacy, witness, and good works have left
an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the entire world.
History will remember Pope John Paul II as one
of the most
powerful
and important world leaders in the second half of the 20th
Century. The first non-Italian pope since 1523, Karol Wojtyla of
Krakow, Poland, began his ministry with the words, “Be not afraid.
Open wide the doors for Christ.”
Since that day in October 1978, he has
steadfastly championed the poor and defenseless. During more than
130 trips outside Italy, he tirelessly advocated for the peace,
reconciliation, and forgiveness between countries and nations. He
proclaimed Christ’s message of hope to millions living in poverty
and destitution. He followed his own good counsel and was never
afraid to call individuals, leaders, or nations to task when the
Gospel message of life and love was not heeded. He confronted
oppressive regimes, challenged the conscience of the rich and
powerful, and reached across theological canyons to join hands with
non-Christian religions in efforts to bring peace to a troubled
world.
In the wake of his passing, the Catholic faith
community—indeed, all people of faith—must come together to carry on
his work. We unite together—in sorrow shared by hundreds of
millions—as we mourn the death of Pope John Paul II. The world has
lost a great man. The religious communities have lost a great
spiritual leader. And the Church has lost a devoted, loving, and
caring Holy Father. Today—even in the midst of our sadness and
grief—we celebrate the gift of this holy man and find comfort and
joy in knowing he is resting in God’s presence for all eternity.
Well done, thou
good and faithful servant.
