*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
Pope St. John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła, was a shining beacon of inspiration and faith in the 20th century. His journey towards sainthood is a testament to his commitment to God and his fellow human beings. For Catholics, his life is an invaluable source of wisdom and guidance in today’s world. Let’s explore what made him a saint and the timeless lessons we can learn from his extraordinary life.
Karol Józef Wojtyła was born in Wadowice, Poland, on May 18, 1920. His early life was marked by hardship, including the loss of his mother, brother, and father by the time he was 21. These trials molded him into a man of deep faith and resilience. He pursued a vocation to the priesthood, despite the challenges of living under Nazi occupation during World War II. His trust in God and his strong faith carried him through these difficult years.
Karol Wojtyła was inspired to become a priest by the influence of local clergy, particularly his parish priest, Fr. Tomasz Krysztofiak, and the profound experiences of World War II, during which he witnessed the persecution of the Catholic Church. His academic pursuits in philosophy and theology, coupled with a strong personal spiritual life, prepared him for the priesthood. His sense of duty and a calling to serve others led him to be ordained as a priest in 1946, eventually becoming Archbishop of Krakow. He was elected as Pope on October 16, 1978, becoming Pope John Paul II.
“Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.”
Pope St. John Paul II
His papacy was marked by a commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and a tireless devotion to the youth. He made over a hundred international trips, spreading the message of Christ’s love to millions. He played a significant role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, showing that faith and courage could overcome oppressive regimes.
In addition to his religious leadership, Pope John Paul II was also a prolific author. He wrote numerous books during his life, including ‘Crossing the Threshold of Hope,’ ‘Love and Responsibility,’ and ‘The Theology of the Body.’ These works covered a wide range of topics, from theology and ethics to personal reflections on faith and the human condition. His writings continue to inspire and guide people in their spiritual journeys, making him not only a beloved pope but also a respected literary figure.
Among other things, Pope St. John Paul II also has a delightful sense of humor and an approachable personality that endears him to people around the world. One charming story recalls his love for skiing, which he pursued even as a Pope. To the mild consternation of his security detail, he would discreetly leave the Vatican to enjoy skiing, often leaving others in the dust as they struggled to keep pace. Additionally, he has a deep passion for art, often dedicating his free time to painting and writing poetry. His artwork revealed his deep connection with the beauty of creation, and he would sometimes even gift his paintings to friends and colleagues. These stories remind us that even the holiest among us can share light-hearted moments and cultivate diverse interests.
Pope St. John Paul II’s life offers several vital lessons for today’s Catholics:
1. Embrace Suffering with Faith: Pope St. John Paul II’s early life was filled with suffering, but he never lost faith. We can learn to embrace our trials and tribulations, knowing that God walks with us in our darkest moments.
2. Stand Up for Justice: Pope St. John Paul II promoted social justice, advocating for the rights and dignity of every human being. As Catholics, we can follow his example by working towards a more just and compassionate world.
3. Strengthen Your Faith Through Prayer: Pope St. John Paul II emphasizes the importance of prayer. He shows us that a strong prayer life can sustain us through life’s challenges and bring us closer to God.
4. Engage with the Youth: Pope St. John Paul II has a special connection with young people, often addressing them as “Dear young people.” He recognizes their potential and the importance of their faith. As parents, we can learn from this and engage with our children in conversations about faith, morality, and their place in the world.
“This is no time to be ashamed of the Gospel. It is the time to preach it from the rooftops. Do not be afraid to break out of comfortable and routine modes of living in order to take up the challenge of making Christ known in the modern metropolis.”
Pope St. John Paul II
Pope St. John Paul II was canonized as a saint on April 27, 2014, alongside Pope St. John XXIII. This momentous occasion marked the recognition of his extraordinary holiness and his profound impact on the world.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the life and teachings of Pope St. Pope John Paul II continue to shine as a guiding light for Catholics of all ages. His unwavering faith, commitment to justice, and love for the youth make him a saint whose example we can all strive to follow. As we reflect on his life, we find inspiration to deepen our faith, reach out to the marginalized, and build a more compassionate and united world.
FAMILY ACTIVITY: Pope St. John Paul II’s motto was “Totus tuus,” which means “totally yours” in Latin. This is a reference to his love of Mary, Our Lord’s Blessed Mother. He was instrumental in popularizing consecrating oneself to Jesus through the Blessed Virgin Mary. Marian Consecration for Children: Bringing Mary to Life in Young Hearts and Minds is a great way to learn about and practice this special devotion as a family!