In Memoriam - John Paul II

This past weekend we recalled the memory of the beloved Pope John Paul II. At 1:37 pm last Sunday April 2 the bell tolled here at the seminary recalling the very minute (9:37 pm Rome time) that he went on to his reward. Also, there was a portrait of the deacesed pontiff displayed in St. Mary's Chapel for Mass.

Memories of the interregnum, conclave and election of Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI were on everyone's minds and hearts. It was a monumental time not only in the history of the Church, but in the hearts and souls of millions. John Paul II touched (and continues to touch) the hearts of so many with his total gift of self that he lived on a day to day basis. He wasn't just a model for Christian holiness through suffering for the souls in his flock, but for everyone in the world. Why else was his the largest funeral in recorded history? Why else does his tomb witness droves of pilgrims each day?

I think this is a good time to read a good book by the late pontiff or about his life. Perhaps watching the video of his funeral Mass would be nice way of remembering him, or maybe do both! Not that the story ends with that, watch the whole process with the conclave and election (check your nearby religious goods store or go online to find videos). There is a good online memorial of JPII set up by EWTN that you may want to check out. Don't forget to say a prayer for his intercession as well!