this week's feasts
Pope St. John Paul II
On Thursday, Oct. 22, we celebrate the feast of Pope St. John Paul II. Born as Karol Wojtyla, in Poland, he studied for the priesthood while Poland was under Nazi rule. When the Nazis were defeated, Poland fell under the rule of Soviet Russia. He was ordained in 1946, consecrated a bishop in 1958, and elected pope in 1978 (the Year of Three Popes). He participated in the Second Vatican Council and was an advisor to Pope Paul IV.
When Pope Paul VI died in 1978, Pope John Paul I was elected, but died 35 days later. Karol Wojtyla was elected Pope John Paul II on Oct. 16 and died on April 2, 2005.
During his very long papacy, he participated in the collapse of the Soviet Union, published the Catechism of the Catholic Church, travelled more than all popes before him combined, and had many other major accomplishments.
When Pope Paul VI died in 1978, Pope John Paul I was elected, but died 35 days later. Karol Wojtyla was elected Pope John Paul II on Oct. 16 and died on April 2, 2005.
During his very long papacy, he participated in the collapse of the Soviet Union, published the Catechism of the Catholic Church, travelled more than all popes before him combined, and had many other major accomplishments.