I did not personally have the privilege of meeting this extraordinary individual named Pope John Paul, II. I wish I had. Although, it was not until the beginning of 2005, the year in which he died that I began to be really interested in his thoughts, actions, and words of wisdom. At the start of my conversion I noticed myself trying to remember everything I had learned in Catholic School. I wanted to know more about the traditions and the teachings of my religion. I was hungry for the truth and for spiritual guidance. So I looked toward the Vicar of Christ, Pope John Paul, II. And many of my questions were answered. Even though I felt like I was getting to know this man of God, I still pondered why Catholics around the World would line up and wait hours to see him. I knew that he was extremely wise and full of the Holy Spirit but yet I could not identify with the feelings of millions of other Catholics regarding this great man. What made this man that God appointed, Pope John Paul, II so well loved and recieved? I wanted to know. So I prayed and asked God to help me to see Pope John Paul, II as He did. And then one day it happened, I was watching the news regarding the Pope’s health, I saw the Pope riding in his car waving at the crowds and I had tears in my eyes. At that exact moment I saw him as my brother and I felt a strong love for him fill my heart. After his death I can now say that one of the answers among many to the question of why he was so well loved and recieved is because when you feel loved by someone it is easy to love them in return. I do believe that Pope John Paul, II loved us and that made him easy to love. When I think back on him I remember these things about our Pontiff. He was steadfast in his convictions. He had a humble, pleasant, and peaceful demeanor. He treated every human being with the utmost respect and dignity despite their status in life. It has been said that he attended confession once every week and that he had a special love for all human beings regardless of their nationally or religion. He has left us with a legacy of hope and love. And the beautiful memory of him that remains continues to inspire us, to teach us, and to guide us to Christ.

Father, we pray for your protection and guidance over our Holy Father, Pope Benedict, XVI. Give him strength and wisdom to stand as a prophet for our times. May he be a light in darkness around which we gather in hope. We ask you to bring about reconciliation through his faithful teaching of peace and justice. Grant him compassion and care to live the gospel in love and service to all people. Let him follow in the path of Peter and Paul who, filled with the Holy Spirit, preached that the Lord saves all who call upon his name. Amen.