As one of the millions of 'JP2-Generation Catholics,' I owe a lot to the great Pope John Paul II. I remember vividly the excitement and anticipation I felt when I was able to go to the Papal Mass in the Trans World Dome in St. Louis in 1999. I fondly remember reading many of his encyclicals, especially those having to do with Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary (I, in fact, am re-reading one right now in preparation for a paper I'm writing), and those having to do with the priesthood (i.e. Pastores Dabo Vobis).
(Pope enters the Trans World Dome in St. Louis in 1999)
I remember the sadness I felt when his health began to decline. I also remember the joy with which he left this earth—he knew, just as well as any of us, that he was destined (as one of God's 'chosen people') for something greater: Eternal Paradise. This was his life; he always directed people towards the Truth that is found only in Christ and his Church. He was remembered by Catholics and non-Catholics as a gentle shephard, one who knew his flock well and intelligently dealt with many problems that arose.
We have Pope John Paul II to thank for our new Catechism, and for helping to smooth the rough waves of unrest and discord that sometimes resulted from Vatican II and the changing times in society. But we can now do something greater than merely thanking the man—we can pray that he will help us on our journey to join him and the rest of the Communion of Saints in Eternal Glory, praising the Lord in His presence forever.
Pope John Paul II, pray for us!