Guest Author - Ewa Sapinska

On the 2nd of April 2005, when Pope John Paul II drew his final earthly breath, millions of people around the world, ,Catholics and non Catholics alike mourned his passing .It is undoubtedly a moment that will forever be imprinted on the hearts of the masses.

Around the globe, people joined together in silent reflection and sorrow. Tears stained the cobbled ground of St Peter’s Square. In Poland, hundreds of thousands of candles where lit, and sombre songs of grief, hauntingly echoed throughout the land under its amber glow. Polish flags swayed in the breeze to the rhythm of continuous prayer. He was “our Pope” lamented the crowds, but he was God’s son, and God decided it was time to welcome him home.

A year has passed, and still we are touched by Pope John Paul II teachings, through film, poetry and the spoken word. The crowd flocked yet again in St Peter's square on the anniversary of his death, in remembrance of such a revered and loved man. Even in death, as in life, he still had the gift of bringing people together, regardless of background or age.

Pope John Paul II arguably did more for the Catholic faith than any other Pope in history, and even though he was sometimes criticised for his strict doctrine, he was always admired for his unwavering beliefs. He was a man of God’s word, and not of the changing ideals and morals of society. “Totus Tuus”, till the end.

Pope John Paul II was a man of good humour, charisma and an incredible amount of spirit and energy. He will be remembered as much for his devotion to his faith and ministry as he will be for the warm smile that was the splendour of his gaze.

In the recent film that was premiered in the Vatican “Karol, the man who remained a man”, the actor that was representing the Pope in his latter years, Piotr Adamczyk, was fortunately blessed with a smile to match, for without that, his portrayal would have lacked truth. Pope John Paul II famously remarked bewilderingly, to the Polish actor, “You are crazy to make a film about me, what did I ever do?” Such was the humbleness of a man who did so much, for so many.

I recently knelt by John Paul II tomb stone. The emotions that overwhelmed me are too personal and difficult to describe. The peace that embraced me at that time will be something I will always remember.

I will always remember!



Ewa Sapinska