Saint20th–21st century · Feast October 22
Also known as Karol Józef Wojtyła, Pope John Paul II, John Paul the Great
A Polish pope whose experience of war and totalitarianism shaped a global ministry centred on human dignity, hope, young people and confidence in Christ.
Lord Jesus, through St John Paul II’s intercession free us from fear, deepen our respect for every person and give us courage to follow our vocation. Amen.
Karol Wojtyła lost much of his family while young and lived under Nazi occupation before entering a clandestine seminary. As priest, bishop and pope he taught widely on human dignity, marriage, culture and freedom, travelled extensively and helped inspire a generation of young Catholics. He publicly forgave the man who attempted to kill him.
John Paul II’s life spanned Nazi occupation, communist rule in Eastern Europe, the Cold War and the rapid globalisation of the Church.
Confidence in Christ, Marian devotion, human dignity, vocational courage and hope shaped through suffering.
John Paul II speaks to young adults discerning purpose, leaders facing oppressive systems and people learning to forgive after violence.
People turn to St John Paul II in matters of:
1920
Is born in Wadowice, Poland
1946
Is ordained a priest
1978
Is elected Pope John Paul II
1981
Survives an assassination attempt and later forgives the attacker
2005
Dies in Vatican City
2014
Is canonised
Source-quality status: unverified prototype
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