Price € 1,00. Back issues € 2,00 L’O S S E RVATOR E ROMANO WEEKLY EDITION IN ENGLISH Unicuique suum Non praevalebunt

Fifty-third year, number 21 (2.648) Friday, 22 May 2020

Karol Wojtyła one hundred years 18 May 2020

D ear brothers and sisters, as we remember the centenary of the birth of John Paul II let us turn to him to ask for his intercession: Intercede so that we may al- ways remain faithful to the Gosp el. Intercede so that we may know how to open wide the doors to Christ. Intercede so that in these difficult times we may be wit- nesses of joy and mercy. Intercede so that we may know how to respond to the needs of our brothers and sis- ters who suffer, recognizing in their faces, the Face of the L o rd . Help us with your interces- sion not to allow ourselves to be robbed of hope, and to be men and women who journey in the certainty of faith. Fr a n c i s page 2 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 22 May 2020, number 21

The Holy Father appointed Fr An- thony Weradet Chaiseri as Metro- politan of Thare and Nonseng. Until now he has served as vicar general of Thare and Non- VAT I C A N seng. Thailand (13 May). Archbishop-elect Chaiseri, 56, was Bishop-elect Muhich, 59, was born in Thare, Thailand. He holds a BULLETIN born in Eveleth, USA . He holds a degree in philosophy and theology. degree in history, and a licence in He was ordained a priest on 21 technology. He was ordained a priest March 1992. He is a member of the AUDIENCES CHANGES IN EP I S C O PAT E on 29 September 1989. .

Saturday, 16 May The Holy Father appointed Fr Peter The Holy Father accepted the resig- The Holy Father appointed Bishop Michael Muhich as Bishop of Rapid nation of Archbishop Louis Chamni- Emmanuel Dassi Youfang as Bishop Cardinal Marc Ouellet, PSS, Prefect of Bafia, Cameroon. Until now he of the City, USA . Until now he has served ern Santisukniran from his office as as rector of the Cathedral of Our Metropolitan Archbishop of Thare has served as of Oes- Cardinal Luis Francisco Ladaria Fer- lady of the (11 May). and Nonseng, Thailand (13 May). cus and Auxiliary of Bafoussam, rer, S J, Prefect of the Congregation Cameroon (13 May). for the Doctrine of the Faith Bishop Dassi Youfang, 52, was Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, born in Baham, Cameroon. He was Prefect of the Congregation for the Congregation for the Causes of ordained a priest on 16 June 2001. Evangelization of Peoples He was ordained a bishop on 7 January 2017, subsequent to his ap- Promulgation of Decrees pointment as titular Bishop of Oes- NEW DIO CESE cus and Auxiliary of Bafoussam. On Tuesday, 5 May, the Holy Father received in audience Cardinal Angelo The Holy Father approved the mer- Becciu, Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. During the The Holy Father appointed Bishop ging of the Archdiocese of Anchor- audience, the Supreme Pontiff authorized the Congregation to promulgate Eusebius Alfred Nzigilwa as Bishop age and the Diocese of Juneau, USA, of Mpanda, Tanzania. Until now he into a single circumscription named the Decrees regarding: has served as titular Bishop of Mo- Anchorage-Juneau, USA . At the same — the heroic virtues of the Servant of God Francesco Caruso, priest zotcori and Auxiliary of the Arch- time he appointed as its first Metro- of the Archdiocese of Catanzaro-Squillace, ; born on 7 December diocese of Dar-es-Salaam (13 May). politan Archbishop Bishop Andrew 1879, in Gasperina, Italy, and died there on 18 October 1951; Eugene Bellisario, CM. Until now he — the heroic virtues of the Servant of God Carmelo De Palma, Bishop Nzigilwa, 53, was born in has served as Bishop of Juneau and priest of the Archdiocese of Bari-Bitonto, Italy; born on 27 January Mwanza, Tanzania. He was or- Apostolic Administrator of Anchor- 1876 in Bari, Italy, and died there on 24 August 1961; dained a priest on 23 June 1995. He age (19 May). — the heroic virtues of the Servant of God Francisco Barrecheguren was ordained a bishop on 19 March Archbishop Bellisario, 63, was Montagut, professed priest of the Congregation of the Most Holy Re- 2010, subsequent to his appointment born in Alhambra, USA . He was or- deemer; born in Lérida, Spain, on 21 August 1881 and died in as titular Bishop of Mozotcori and dained a priest on 16 June 1984. He Granada, Spain, on 7 October 1957; Auxiliary of Dar-es-Salaam. was ordained a bishop on 10 Octo- — the heroic virtues of the Servant of God Maria de la Concepción ber 2017, subsequent to his appoint- Barrecheguren y García, layperson; born on 27 November 1905 in The Holy Father appointed Fr Luis ment as Bishop of Juneau. On 7 Granada, Spain, and died there on 13 May 1927; Miranda Rivera, O. Carm, as Bishop June 2019 he was appointed — the heroic virtues of the Servant of God Matteo Farina, layper- of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. Apostolic Administrator of Anchor- son; born in Avellino, Italy, on 19 September 1990 and died in Brind- Until now he has served as age. isi, Italy, on 24 April 2009. priest of the Archdiocese of San Juan de Puerto Rico and episcopal vicar of the pastoral zone of San Juan-Santurce (16 May). Bishop-elect Miranda Rivera, 66, Congregation for Education communiqué was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico. He holds a degree in philosophy The Congregation for Catholic which is uniting as never before the of life and hope. Our gaze fixed on and theology. He was ordained a Education wishes to emphasize that peoples of the Earth, makes this the one and only Lord gives us the priest on 14 September 1984. it is close to our Catholic schools’ call even more meaningful. There- courage to develop — including via and universities’ educating com- fore, we have no choice: we are all education — that dynamic of unity The Holy Father appointed Fr Vi- munities, and expresses its great es- called “to unite our efforts in a and solidarity among people, reli- cente Horacio Saeteros Sierra as teem for what they are doing in this broad educational alliance, to form gions and cultures, which can give Auxiliary Bishop of Portoviejo, time of medical emergency, to guar- mature individuals who can over- birth to a renewed humanity. Ecuador, assigning him the titular antee — with the great effort it re- come division and antagonism, and Let us walk together on the paths episcopal See of Rusuccuru. Until quires, and notwithstanding the dif- instead re-create the interweave of of dialogue and mutual understand- now he has served as vicar general ficulties due to social and human relationships to form a more ing, firm in our commitment to and parish priest of the Cathedral distancing — the continuation of fraternal humanity” ( Francis, place ourselves at the service of our (16 May). their activities, to ensure that the Message for the Launch of the Global communities. Through sharing, re- Bishop-elect Saeteros Sierra, 52, current academic year can proceed Compact on Education, 12 Septem- spect and reciprocal welcoming, a was born in Santa Ana, Ecuador. He and draw to a close. ber 2019). new humanity will care not only for holds a degree in philosophy and On 14 May, there should have The Higher Committee for Hu- its children but also for the sur- theology and was awarded a licence been the world event of the Global man Fraternity dedicated 14 May to rounding nature, from whose mar- in Church history by the Pontifical Compact on Education, so desired by prayer, fasting and works of charity vels it draws nourishment. Gregorian University in . He , to increase our to help humanity overcome the While echoing this appeal, so was ordained a priest 25 March 2000. awareness of the responsibility we coronavirus pandemic; and Pope rich in hope, it gives us joy to re- all have vis-à-vis education, so as to Francis endorsed this proposal. We call that we shall continue to keep foster a spirit of encounter among hope that educational institutions in touch, by means of a teleconfer- NECROLO GY the different generations, religions fully welcomed this invitation, com- ence, on 15 October 2020, with par- and cultures, as well as between hu- ing together to make this an occa- ticipants on-line from all over the Bishop Gérard Dionne, Bishop manity and the environment. The sion for entrusting ourselves to world, to study in greater depth the emeritus of Edmundston, Canada, at shared tragedy of the pandemic, God, the Father of all, the Source Global Compact on Education. age 100 (13 May)

ANDREA MONDA TIPO GRAFIA VAT I C A N A EDITRICE Subscription rates: Italy - Vatican: € 58.00; Europe: € 100.00 - US$ 148.00 £ 80.00; Latin America, Africa, L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO L’OS S E R VAT O R E ROMANO Asia: € 110.00 - US$ 160.00 - £ 88.00; Oceania, North America: € 162.00 - £ 130.00. Editor-in-Chief Management Office: phone +390669899480; fax +390669885164; e-mail [email protected]. WEEKLY EDITION IN ENGLISH For India: The weekly English Edition of L'Osservatore Romano is published and distributed in Unicuique suum Non praevalebunt Photo Service Giuseppe Fiorentino [email protected] w w w. p h o t o .v a India by Carmel International Publishing House, Cotton Hill, Trivandrum- 695 014, Kerala-India; Assistant Editor phone: +91471327253, fax: +91471328191, 329934; e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]. For North America: L’Osservatore Romano (USPS 016-419) is published fifty times per year (weekly, except third week in Advertising Agency August and last week in December) by Our Sunday Visitor, L’Osservatore Romano, English Edition, 200 Noll Plaza, Vatican City Il Sole 24 Ore S.p.A. Editorial office Huntington, IN 46750. Periodicals Postage Pending at Huntington, IN, and additional mailing offices, USA – phone: redazione.inglese.or@sp c.va System Comunicazione Pubblicitaria via del Pellegrino, 00120 Vatican City Via Monte Rosa 91, 20149 Milano 800-348-2440 x2171; fax: 866-891-7390 – e-mail: [email protected]. w w w. o s s e r v a t o re ro m a n o .v a telephone +390669899300, fax +390669883675 s e g re t e r i a d i re z i o n e s y s t e m @ i l s o l e 2 4 o re . c o m POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Our Sunday Visitor, 200 Noll Plaza, Huntington, IN 46750 number 21, Friday, 22 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 3

GENERAL AU D I E N C E

“If life’s events, with all their bitterness, sometimes risk choking the gift of prayer that is within us, it is enough to contemplate a starry sky, a sunset, a flower..., in order to rekindle a spark of thanksgiving”, the Holy Father said during the General Audience on Wednesday morning, 20 May. As he continued his series of catecheses on prayer, the Pope reflected on Psalm 8 and the mystery of creation. The following is a translation of his words which he delivered in Italian from the library of the Vatican’s .

Pope Francis calls for protection of Creation which bears the signature of God Prayer is the first strength of hope

Dear Brothers and Sisters, the only creature aware of the someone began to find reasons the darkest times, even in times Good morning, great profusion of beauty. A small for thanksgiving, to praise God of greatest suffering. being who is born, who dies; he for his or her existence. Prayer is Let us continue the catechesis on We are all bearers of joy. Have is here today and gone tomorrow. the first strength of hope. You prayer, by meditating on the mys- you considered this? That you are He is the only one who is aware pray and hope grows, it moves tery of Creation. Life, the simple bearers of joy? Or do you prefer of this beauty. We are aware of forward. I would say that prayer fact that we exist, opens man- to bring bad news, things that this beauty! opens the door to hope. There is kind's heart to prayer. sadden? We are capable of bear- Mankind’s prayer is closely hope but I open the door with The first page of the Bible re- ing joy. This life is the gift that linked to the sentiment of w o n d e r. my prayer. Because gave us: and it is too short sembles a great hymn of thanks- The greatness of man is infinites- prayer safeguard basic truths; giving. The narrative of Creation to consume it in sadness, in bit- imal when compared to the di- they are the ones who repeat, first terness. Let us praise God, happy has a rhythm with refrains, where and foremost to themselves and mensions of the universe. His to simply exist. Let us look at the the goodness and beauty of every then to all the others, that this greatest conquests seem quite universe, let us look at beauty living thing is continually em- life, despite all its toils and trials, small... However man is not and let us also look at our crosses phasized. With his word, God despite its difficult days, is full of nothing. In prayer a sentiment of and say: ‘You exist, you made us calls to life, and every thing a grace that is awe inspiring. And mercy is powerfully confirmed. like this, for you’. It is necessary comes into existence. With his as such it must always be defen- Nothing exists by chance: the to feel that unrest of the heart word, he separates life from dark- secret of the universe lies in a be- ded and protected. that leads to thanking and prais- ness, alternates day and night, in- nevolent gaze that someone meets Men and women who pray ing God. We are children of the terchanges the seasons, opens a in our eyes. The Psalm states that know that hope is stronger than great King, of the Creator, cap- palette of colours with the variety we are made little less than God; discouragement. They believe able of reading his signature in of plants and animals. In this we are crowned with glory and that love is more powerful than all of Creation. We are not safe- overflowing forest that quickly honour (cf. 8:6). The relationship death, and that surely one day it vanquishes the chaos, the last one with God is man's greatness, his guarding that creation today, but will triumph, even if in times and that creation holds the signature to appear is man. And this ap- enthronement. By nature we are ways that we do not understand. of God who made it out of love. pearance inspires an extreme ex- almost nothing, small, but by vo- Men and women of prayer bear May the Lord make us under- ultation that amplifies his satis- cation, by calling, we are the chil- gleaming reflections of light on stand this ever more deeply and faction and joy: “God saw dren of the great King! their faces: because, the sun does lead us to say “thank you”; and everything that he had made, and It is an experience that many not stop illuminating them, even that “thank you” is a beautiful behold, it was very good (Gen of us have had. If life's events, in the darkest of days. Prayer illu- p r a y e r. 1:31). Very good, but also beauti- with all their bitterness, some- minates you: it illuminates the ful: the beauty of all creation can times risk choking the gift of souls, it illuminates the heart and be seen! prayer that is within us, it is it illuminates the face. Even in SPECIAL GREETINGS The beauty and mystery of enough to contemplate I greet the English-speaking Creation create in the human a starry sky, a sunset, a faithful joining us through the heart the first impulse that evokes flower..., in order to re- media. As we prepare to celebrate prayer (cf. Catechism of the Cathol- kindle a spark of the Ascension of the Lord, I in- ic Church, 2566). The eighth thanksgiving. This ex- voke upon you and your families Psalm which we heard earlier perience is perhaps the the peace and joy that come from states: “When I look at thy heav- basis of the first page the Risen Christ. May God bless ens, the work of thy fingers, the of the Bible. moon and the stars which thou you! The people of Israel hast established; what is man that I offer a special thought to the were not experiencing thou art mindful of him, and the e l d e rl y, to young people, to the sick happy days when the son of man that thou dost care and to newlyweds. Ascending into great biblical narrative for him?” (vv. 3-4). The one pray- heaven, Jesus Christ leaves a mes- of Creation was writ- ing contemplates the mystery of sage and a plan for the whole ten. An enemy power the life around him; he sees the Church: “Go therefore and make had occupied their starry sky that lies above him — disciples of all nations … teach- land; many had been and that astrophysics shows us ing them to observe all that I deported, and they today in all its immensity — and have commanded you” (Mt 28:19- now found themselves asks himself what loving plan 20). May making Christ's word of slaves in Mesopotamia. must there be behind such pon- be known, and witness- There was no more derous work!.... And, in this ing it in daily life, be your ideal homeland, nor temple, boundless expanse, what is man? and your commitment. My bless- nor social and religious ‘Almost nothing’, another Psalm ing to you all! states (cf. 89:48): a being that is life, nothing. born, a being that dies, an ex- Yet, precisely in tremely fragile creature. Yet, in all starting from the great the universe, the human being is narrative of Creation, page 4 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 22 May 2020, number 21

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

The celebration of Saint John Paul II Those hands opened to everyone

ANDREA TORNIELLI religions, expresses a relationship with a supreme power that surpasses On 27 October 1986 when recent our human capacity alone”. history stood at a dramatic juncture “We are here”, Pope Wojtyła ad- and the prospect of a nuclear war ded, “because we are certain that was real, Saint John Paul II cour- there is the need of intense and ageously called representatives of the humble prayer, of confident prayer, world’s religions to Assisi, overcom- if the world will finally become a place of true and permanent peace”. ing a fair bit of resistance, even from world’s religions again to Assisi in globe in order to embrace all the This 18 May, we celebrate the cen- within the Church. “The gathering January 2002, without ever surren- peoples of the world and proclaim tenary of the birth of this great together of so many heads of reli- dering to the ideology of the clash the Gospel. He fought to defend the gions to pray”, he said, “is of itself Pontiff who came from behind the of civilizations, but rather focusing dignity of every human life. He paid an invitation to today’s world to be- Iron Curtain, and during his long everything always, even until the an historical visit to Rome’s Syn- come aware that there exists another Petrine Ministry, steered the church end, on the encounter among agogue, and was the first Pope in dimension of peace and another way into the new millennium. He wit- peoples, cultures, religions. history to cross the threshold of a of promoting it, that is not the result nessed the fall of the Wall that di- He bore witness to a rock-solid mosque. He navigated along the way of negotiating, of political com- vided Europe into two and had faith, the asceticism of a great mys- indicated by the Second Vatican promises or economic haggling. hoped to see the dawning of a new tic, an overflowing humanity. He Council. He knew how to open up Rather, it is the result of prayer, era of peace, but instead — sick and spoke to everyone and never left new and unexplored paths, even to which, even despite the diversity of elderly — he had to face new wars anything unattempted in trying to the point of stating that he was will- and a destabilizing and ruthless ter- prevent the outburst of a conflict, ing to engage in a discussion on the rorism that uses God’s name to sow rather favouring peaceful transitions, way of exercising the ministry of death and destruction. To counteract and promoting peace and justice. Peter, to promote unity of Christians. this, he invited the heads of the He travelled far and wide across the His witness is as current as ever.

Special edition and new app to celebrate the centenary of the birth of Karol Wojtyła

On Sunday, 17 May, L’Osservatore Romano of Constantinople, Secretary of Sate Car- daily edition launched an app which will dinal , Mikhail Gorbachev, enable readers to access the ’s Lech Wałęsa and former collaborators of newspaper more easily, also from mobile Karol Wojtyła. devices. Available for free download on Apple Readers can request a hard copy of the spe- and Google stores, the app’s launch was cial edition by writing to [email protected]. timed to coincide with the newspaper’s special edition dedicated to the centenary Copies of photographs of the complete Ponti- of the birth of Saint John Paul II. ficate of Pope Wojtyla can be purchased from The special insert which begins with a the Vatican photographic service on greeting by Pope Francis, includes articles www.photovat.com. A special collection of the Looking at copies of recalling the Saint from various authors, most beautiful photographs will be available The QR code to download L’Osservatore Romano, 1988 among them, His Holiness Bartholomew for purchase in July. L'Osservatore Romano’s free App

The Pope emeritus sends letter to Bishops of Poland Benedict XVI recalls the mercy of Saint John Paul II

“The whole of the Pope’s life was “It is here”, the Pope emeritus centered on subjectively assimilat- continued, “that we must find the ing the objective center of the inner unity of John Paul II’s mes- Christian faith — the teaching of sage and the fundamental inten- salvation — and allowing others to tions of Pope Francis: contrary to accept it”. Pope emeritus Benedict what is sometimes said, John Paul II is not a moral rigorist. By XVI wrote these words in a letter demonstrating the essential import- addressed to the Bishops of Po- ance of divine mercy, he gives us land, to mark the centenary of the the opportunity to accept the mor- birth of Saint John Paul II. al demands placed on man, even “Thanks to the risen Christ, the though we can never fully satisfy mercy of God is for all”, he recalls, them. Our moral efforts are under- and “everyone must know that the taken in the light of the mercy of mercy of God will eventually prove God, which reveals itself as stronger than our weakness”. strength that heals our weakness”. number 21, Friday, 22 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 5

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

Holy Father’s Letter to the Rector of the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas Inaugurated at the Angelicum the Saint John Paul II Institute of Culture

On Monday afternoon, 18 May, centenary of the birth of Karol Wojtyła, the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) inaugurated the Saint John Paul II Institute of Culture. For the occasion, Pope Francis sent a Letter to the Rector of the Angelicum which had the young future Polish Pope among its students. The following is the English text of Pope Francis’ L e t t e r.

To the Reverend Michał Paluch, O.P. ject and its first and most important Rector of the Pontifical University architect. This is thanks to the rich of Saint Thomas Aquinas and multifaceted heritage that he On the centenary of the birth of left to us, and even more so by the example of his open and contem- Saint John Paul II, the most illustri- ous alumnus of your university, the plative spirit, his passion for God Institute of Culture named after him and man, for creation, history and is being inaugurated at the Angelic- art. um, within the Faculty of Philo- The range of experiences that sophy. In expressing my appreci- marked his life, especially the mo- ation for this initiative, I cordially mentous historical events and the greet the entire academic community personal sufferings that he sought to and all those present for the event, interpret in the light of the Spirit, missionary. Suffice it to mention Hominis, 12; cf. Address to U N E S C O, especially the representatives of the led Saint John Paul II to an even Saint Paul and, for instance, his ad- 2 June 1980). two Polish Foundations, Fu t u ra deeper reflection on man and his dress in the Areopagus at Athens. We need to keep this approach Iuventa and Saint Nicholas, which cultural roots as an essential refer- The missionary attitude always be- alive if we wish to be an outward- support the new Institute. ence point for every proclamation of gins with a feeling of deep esteem looking Church, not satisfied with The principal aim of the Institute the Gospel. Indeed, in his first En- for ‘what is in man’, for what man preserving and administering what is to reflect on contemporary cul- cyclical he wrote: “We approach all has himself worked out in the ture. To do so, the organizers intend cultures, all ideological concepts, all depths of his spirit concerning the already exists but seeking to be to seek the collaboration of eminent people of good will. We approach most profound and important prob- faithful to our mission. philosophers, theologians and men them with the esteem, respect and lems. It is a question of respecting I am pleased that this initiative and women of culture in its broadest discernment that since the time of everything that has been brought has found a home in the University sense. Saint John Paul II is at once the Apostles has marked the mis- about in him by the Spirit, which both the inspiration behind this pro- sionary attitude, the attitude of the ‘blows where it wills’” (Redemptor CONTINUED ON PA G E 10

Pope sends video message to Polish youth Difficulties can only be overcome by relying on the power of Christ

On Monday evening, 18 May, 100 years since the Each and every one of you, dear boys and girls, and father. As a student he experienced the atro- birth of Karol Wojtyła, Pope Francis sent a video bears the imprint of your own family, with its joys cities of Nazism, that took so many of his friends message to the young people of Poland – and youth and sorrows. Love and care for the family is a from him. After the war, as a priest and bishop, around the world – urging them to let Christ enter characteristic feature of John Paul II. His teach- he had to face Atheistic Communism. every aspect of their lives. The following is a ings are a secure point of reference to find con- Difficulties, even tough ones, are a test of ma- translation of the video message. crete solutions to difficulties and to the challenges turity and of faith; a test that can only be over- that families must face in our times (cf. Message to come by relying on the power of Christ, who died Dear young people, the Congress “John Paul II, the Pope of the family”, and rose again. John Paul II reminded the whole Redemptor This year we celebrate 100 years since the birth of Rome, 30 October 2019). Church of this in his first Encyclical, Hominis, where it says, “The man who wishes to Saint John Paul II. It is a beautiful occasion for But personal and family problems are not an understand himself thoroughly ... must with his me to address you, young people of Krakow, obstacle on the road to holiness and happiness. unrest, uncertainty and even his weakness and thinking about how much he loved young people, Nor were they for young Karol Wojtyła, who — as sinfulness, with his life and death draw near to and remembering my presence among you for a lad — suffered the loss of his mother, Christ. He must, so to speak, enter into him with WYD in 2016. all his own self” (n. 10). Saint John Paul II was an extraordinary gift of Dear young people, this is what I hope for God to the Church and to Poland, your mother- each and every one of you: to enter Christ with land. His earthly pilgrimage, which began on 18 your whole life. And I hope that the celebrations May 1920 in Wadowice and ended 15 years ago in of the centenary of the birth of Saint John Paul II Rome, was marked by his passion for life and by will inspire within you the desire to walk cour- a fascination with the mystery of God, of the ageously with Jesus, who is “the Lord of risk, he world and of humankind. is the Lord of the eternal ‘m o re ’.... As he did on I remember him as a great man of mercy: I am Pentecost, the Lord wants to work one of the thinking of the Encyclical Dives in Misericordia, of greatest miracles we can experience; he wants to the canonisation of Saint Faustina and of the in- turn your hands, my hands, our hands into signs stitution of Divine Mercy Sunday. In the light of of reconciliation, of communion, of creation. He Go d’s merciful love, he captured the specificity wants your hands — boys and girls he wants your and beauty of the vocation of women and men, hands — to continue building the world of today” he understood the needs of children, of young (Address at the Prayer Vigil on the occasion of World people and of adults, also considering cultural Youth Day, Krakow, 30 July 2016). and social conditioning. Everyone was able to ex- I entrust you all to the intercession of Saint perience him. You too, today can experience him, John Paul II and I bless you, wholeheartedly. And know about his life and his teachings, which are you, please, do not forget to pray for me. available to everyone also thanks to the internet. Francis at the WYD in Krakow, 2016 Thank you! number 21, Friday, 22 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 6/7

Do not be afraid! Open, rather, throw open wide the doors to Christ! To his saving power, open countries’ borders, economic and KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS political systems, the vast camps of culture, of civilization, of development. Do not be afraid! Christ knows “what is inside man”. He alone knows it!

An open window on the world The Pope of Dialogue and Defender of Human Dignity PIETRO PAROLIN abroad, in which I was Constitution, which did not mission. For him it was not a Tarsus. Like him, he had directly involved in recognize the Church’s right preferential option, but an received the irrepressible call e had returned to the preparations and in which I to exist, and even went so far evangelical need. To go to enlarge the doors of the BARTHOLOMEW him — such as human dignity election. At the Phanar, on Vatican just a few was directly involved as as to prohibit religious outside of oneself in order to house in order to make and freedom, social justice the occasion of the Thronal H days before his 70th Secretary of the then functions in public. rediscover oneself, to lose anyone who reached it feel at t is fifteen years since the and solidarity, dialogue and Feast of the Church of birthday. I, on the other side Apostolic Delegation to But John Paul II did not oneself in order to find home: the house of the living passing of Pope John Christian witness — b ecame Constantinople, we first met of the ocean, was thinking Mexico. The same country come as a politician seeking oneself: the Teacher taught God is destined for the great I Paul II, whose life and axioms and pillars of his the new Pope in our capacity about what had just taken which, in January 1979, had accords, even if his charism this. The very name he had human family. Not only that, teaching left an indelible mark ecclesiastical and pastoral as Director of the Private place, a truly unique constituted the first ring of and his “imp etus”favoured, in chosen as Pontiff bore the but as the Apostle of the in the heart of the world and ministry. Pope John Paul II Office of the late Ecumenical experience, humanly and that impossible chain of the years immediately imprint of that of the first the life of the Church. Terms eloquently articulated his Demetrios. spiritually “overwhelming” is worldwide apostolic itineraries thereafter, the transformation great missionary, Paul of CONTINUED ON PA G E 8 and principles so precious to conviction that the mission of On November 30, 1979, the how I would define it, for undertaken by the Pope of the Government’s policy on the Church was to liberate Patriarch and the Pope issued myself and for the millions of “called from afar”, who religious matters and the humankind from all forms of a common declaration faithful met along the way managed to broach every establishment of diplomatic oppression. He played a vital announcing the who had practically led him distance, not just those relations with the Holy See, in role in bringing down the commencement of the Joint walls of separation that had to touch, in one week, the measured in kilometres. favour of those for which the Commission for Theological long imprisoned Eastern entire geography of the “land In those times Mexico, even then Apostolic Delegate, Dialogue between our two Europ e. of volcanoes”. while counting 95 per cent of Archbishop Girolamo Sister Churches. After the From his long tenure as Mexico City, 1990. It was May the Catholic population, Prigione, had long and pioneering exchanges between Bishop of Rome, one could then too. There began my fervidly Marian due to the tenaciously worked. Instead, their predecessors — Pop es spotlight his numerous John XXIII and Paul VI, as most personal memories of presence of the Shrine of Our he introduced himself as a pilgrim seeking faith. At the pastoral travels or encyclical well as Ecumenical Patriarch Saint John Paul II, whom I Lady of Guadalupe in the documents, underline his Athenagoras — who initiated had quickly greeted several capital and of the countless welcome ceremony in the contribution to the reform of the “dialogue of love,” it was years before during his visit to other places of worship airport he said: “The Lord, the master of history and of canon law, but also highlight time to launch the “dialogue the Pontifical Ecclesiastical dedicated to the Most Blessed Torre San Giovanni (Saint John’s Tower), Vatican Gardens, 1995 our destinies, has wished that his extensive inspiration and of truth,” in order to dispel Academy. He had concluded in the entire territory, my pontificate be that of a influence across religious and the misunderstandings and his 47th Apostolic Journey preserved a secularist pilgrim Pope of evangelization, even political realms. Instead, heal the wounds of the past instituted by Ecumenical Adriatic Symposium — an walking down the roads of the let us call attention to three on our way to unity. Patriarch Demetrios in 1989, interfaith and interdisciplinary world, bringing to all areas vital dates in his ecumenical were continued and advanced assembly held in the summer encounters with the Orthodox the message of salvation”. throughout our tenure, of 2002 — addressed the Church and his fraternal A Declaration for Creation: Shortly afterwards he re- especially through a number ethical dimensions of the relations with our predecessor emphasized the concept, June 10, 2002 of international symposia, Ecumenical Patriarch ecological crisis and presenting himself as “‘pilgrim The ecological initiatives of seminars, and summits that Demetrios and us personally. of love and hope’, with the the Orthodox Church, continue to this day. The CONTINUED ON PA G E 8 desire to enliven the energies of Church communities, so A Dialogue Begins: that they might bear abundant harvests of love for November 30, 1979 Christ and service to their Pope John Paul II initiated a brothers and sisters”. new tradition by officially With young people I think one could condense visiting the Ecumenical these words into a single one: Saint Peter’s Square, 16 October 1978 Patriarchate shortly after his on Palm Sunday, 15 April 1984

An unpublished original copy of Saint John Paul II’s encouragement to young people on the occasion of an international encounter for Our beloved Pope is standing today at the window of the Jubilee of the Year 2000 (Palm Sunday, 15 April 1984). the Father’s house, he sees us and blesses us The photograph on the front page also refers to the celebrated with young people in Saint Peter’s Square on that same day. “Follow me”. The Risen Lord says these words and that is why the message of his suffering and to Peter. They are his last words to this , his silence proved so eloquent and so fruitful. chosen to shepherd his flock. “Follow me” – Divine Mercy: the Holy Father found the this lapidary saying of Christ can be taken as purest reflection of God’s mercy in the Mother the key to understanding the message which of God. He, who at an early age had lost his comes to us from the life of our late beloved own mother, loved his divine mother all the Pope John Paul II. Today we bury his remains more. He heard the words of the crucified Lord in the earth as a seed of immortality — our as addressed personally to him: “Behold your hearts are full of sadness, yet at the same time Mother." And so he did as the beloved disciple of joyful hope and profound gratitude. did: he took her into his own home” (eis ta idia: He interpreted for us the paschal mystery as Jn 19:27) — Totus tuus. And from the mother he a mystery of divine mercy. In his last book, he learned to conform himself to Christ. wrote: The limit imposed upon evil “is ulti- We can be sure that our beloved Pope is mately Divine Mercy” (Memory and Identity, pp. standing today at the window of the Father’s 60-61). And reflecting on the assassination at- house, that he sees us and blesses us. Yes, bless tempt, he said: “In sacrificing himself for us all, us, Holy Father. We entrust your dear soul to Christ gave a new meaning to suffering, open- the Mother of God, your Mother, who guided ing up a new dimension, a new order: the order you each day and who will guide you now to the eternal glory of her Son, our Lord Jesus of love ... It is this suffering which burns and Christ. consumes evil with the flame of love and draws forth even from sin a great flowering of good” (Excerpt from Cardinal Josef Ratzinger’s homily Unpublished signature of Saint John Paul II (pp. 189-190). Impelled by this vision, the Pope for the funeral Mass of Pope John Paul II, Saint on the occasion of the last anniversary of his At the “Door of no Return” in Goree Island, Senegal, 1992 suffered and loved in communion with Christ, Peter’s Square, 8 April 2005). election (16 October 2004). page 8 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 22 May 2020, number 21

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

Parolin: An open window on the world

CONTINUED FROM PA G E 6 decades?), all precious, unique, embraced by a smile that always Gentiles, he did not spare himself, loved beauty, as he stood out becoming everything to everyone in gleaming on the cliffs of the Valle order to become involved with them d’Aosta and as he lay, curled up and (cf. 1 Cor 9:23). suffering, in a hospital bed. It is no I was left with an indelible and coincidence that the most suffering inspiring impression by the effort Pope whom the media has shown us that he made to be faithful to the was also the Pope of young people, two events scheduled for each day, to whom on 15 April 1984, on the one in the morning and one in the occasion of the first Day dedicated evening, in different parts of the to them, he addressed a memorable Republic, with the celebrations phrase: “It is worthwhile being man, respectively of Holy Mass and of a because you, Jesus, were man!”. liturgy of the Word. And with that Rome, 2005. Twenty-five years had sense of humour that characterized passed since those eight him, for which one morning, in unforgettable days in Mexico. I too greeting as usual the tens of had crossed the ocean, joining the thousands of people who “lay Curia in the meantime. In the siege”, day and night, to the offices Spring of that year from the open of the Apostolic Nunciature during windows we saw rivers of people his visit, praying and singing, he walking, between prayers and songs, Bartholomew: The Pope of Dialogue said (with reference to the fact that toward the one who, introducing the that evening he would not return to Church in the third millennium, had CONTINUED FROM PA G E 6 of the prestigious Mexico City as he had in other spoken of the new springtime of the capital of the Eastern Roman days): ‘Today I am giving you a Spirit. People from everywhere came concluded with a historical Divine Empire. Formerly treasured in the vacation: rest a little!’. to exchange visits with the pilgrim Liturgy in the Church of Church of the Holy Apostles in In this way that “Open the doors to Pope. The Christian and human Sant’Apollinare in Classe in Constantinople, the relics were Christ” made its way ever deeper family clung to its father, brother, Ravenna on June 9, 2002. subsequently relocated to Rome by within me. It was not merely a friend. Many languages expressed On the next day, on June 10, 2002, way of Venice, leaving a dour and courageous exhortation, so much as the same affection for the missionary delegates attended the closing deep wound in the story of inter- the awareness that it was impossible Pope who had travelled the planet ceremony in Venice, at the Christian relations. St. John to be Church if not truly opening to remind everyone of the dignity of magnificent Palazzo Ducale, where Chrysostom’s remains were placed the doors of the house to the Lord each one. another historical moment of inside St. Peter’s Basilica; St. and, with him, to all brothers and In the Christian language, mission ecumenical and environmental Gregory the Theologian’s were sisters created in his image. A rhymes precisely with communion. proportions unfolded. There, we originally preserved in the convent message given to the world The taught were able to communicate via of St. Maria in Campo Santo, but immediately, from the inauguration this, recalling that the Church, satellite link-up with Pope John later were transferred to the of his Pontificate and from his first essentially, is communion itself and Paul II in order to cosign the Cappella Gregoriana in St. Peter’s. Encyclical, dedicated to the mission for others. The itinerant “Venice Declaration” — the first- The relics remained there until we Redeemer of man and to man, John Paul II was first a young father ever joint text of the two leaders of visited the Vatican in June 2004 on through the Church. and then elderly son of the Council, Western and Eastern Christianity the occasion of the fortieth Thus, the diplomatic service, in the road map for the Church of our exclusively on ecological issues, anniversary of the historic meeting which I was taking my first steps, time. And there we were, all close in emphasizing creation care as the between Pope Paul VI and was opening up broader horizons: it communion around the Pope of moral and spiritual duty of all Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras required not only calling its own mission, in those first days of April, people. As we declared on that of blessed memory, as well as of legitimate reasons to the attention of in its Easter days. We were looking day: “Humankind is entitled to the 800th anniversary since the others, but opening — we first and at the Crucifix and at his cross, something better than what we see Fourth Crusade in 1204. In his then everyone — the doors of the gathered like Mary and John at the around us. We and, much more, address, Pope John Paul II house, in Jesus’ name. It meant foot of the wood, to form a family. our children and future generations officially apologized for the tragic living the diplomatic mission by We understood that those names are entitled to a better world, a events of the Fourth Crusade, to recalling that the noun precedes and suited him: Mary, whose initial world free from degradation, which we responded with a motivates the adjective. It meant stood out under the cross on his violence and bloodshed, a world of humble request for the return of welcoming a splendid truth: that of coat of arms, but was firmly generosity and love.” the sacred relics “as a moral not being foreigners in any country, impressed in the Totus tuus del cuore; restoration of the spiritual legacy and thus at home everywhere. Not John, the evangelist icon of A Legacy for the Ages: of the East, and a significant step only because Catholics are communion, first name of a Pope in the process of reconciliation.” everywhere in the world, but above faithful to it, as father of the entire November 27, 2004 On November 27, 2004, following all because in mankind, in every human family. The last image is his A third critical stage in our a solemn ceremony and procession man and woman, Christ is appearance above the Square, on relationship with the late Pope was led by Pope John Paul II in Rome, knocking, asking that a door be Easter Sunday, at the window, the return of sacred relics to the we escorted the relics of St. op ened. gesticulating and silent for the final, Church of Constantinople — a Gregory the Theologian and St. Thus new gestures again flourish in wordless blessing, made with his significant, albeit sensitive, matter John Chrysostom back to their memory, from the ancient life. Someone wrote that life is an for the relations between our home in New Rome. evangelical zest, signs, indelible open window on the world. I think Churches. In November 2004, the It was arguably one of the final images: crossed borders, ecumenical, that this applies in a special way to remains of St. Gregory the and finest charitable acts, as well interreligious, social and historical the Pope born 100 years ago. I Theologian (†390) and St. John as one of the most momentous and encounters. A Gospel of life thank him with all my heart for Chrysostom (†407) were restored to memorable ecumenical gestures — expressed in the singular and plural: having opened so many windows in the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Both by the elderly and frail pontiff, our a Gospel of many, many lives (who my inner world as well. And for saints had served as renowned beloved brother in Christ. has encountered more in recent letting Light of the world enter. number 21, Friday, 22 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 9

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

He continues to be our contemporary

MIKHAIL GORBACHEV He had a particularly profound understanding of European history n the years of “Pe re s t ro i k a ”, and Europe’s role in the world and also afterwards, I met today. In the same conversation, the exceptional people, among Pope said: “One cannot insist that whom were truly historical the changes in Europe and in the figures. But, among them, entire world go according to the fewI left in my memory a sign as lu- Western model. All that contradicts minous as Pope John Paul II. It was my deepest convictions. Europe, as a a crucial moment in world history participant in world history, must when we began to communicate. breathe with two lungs”. After many years of alienation and It is a very precise image. I sus- hostility between East and West, the tained that thought and later I leaders of the principal countries fi- quoted it more than once in speak- nally understood that we had a com- ing of the present and future of mon enemy, that is, the threat of a Europe. Today these words are ex- nuclear catastrophe. Since then, with tremely relevant. And there is still a combined efforts we began the thought of John Paul II’s that today movement of discussion toward co- sounds not only current, but as an operation and also toward a partner- 1° December 1989 appeal and as a reminder to all ship in the future. world leaders and to all of us. His John Paul II fully supported this words are that we today truly need a process. Today it seems symbolic to took place, I told the Pope that in was characterized by a genuine and new, more stable, equitable and me that our first meeting took place his and my statements the same warm interest for every person. more human world order. in December 1989, on the eve of my words were often found, which were John Paul II was able to combine I am certain that if after the “cold meeting with the President of the similar in any case. “It means that the lofty mission of spiritual leader war” this idea had been used as a United States. Then in Malta, there must be something in com- with a subtle compression of social basis for the development of world George Bush and I declared that mon, beginning with our thoughts”, and political processes throughout politics, and if the same politics ap- our countries no longer considered proached morality and were inspired I suggested. Today, more than 30 the world. He considered “Pe re s - each other enemies. I must say that by it, it would have been possible to years later, I note that that commu- t ro i k a ” as a phenomenon of great even before this I observed with avoid many mistakes and failures, great attention the activities and the nion not only continued, but importance not only for our country for which the world has paid too statements of the leader of the Cath- deepened even in the years after our but also for the entire world, as “the high a price in recent decades. olic Church. And he, in turn, as I communication. search for a new dimension of the The spiritual and intellectual leg- was told, followed with interest the I think I can say with good reas- life of persons, which corresponds acy of John Paul II must be present changes in our country. We estab- on: during those years we became more to the needs of a person and in our reflections on the destiny of lished contacts that later contributed friends. I believe that many other to the interests of different peoples”. to a meeting. When our meeting people can say the same because he I remember these words of his. CONTINUED ON PA G E 10

Go d’s bow before the history of mankind

moment becomes faith and fullness. LECH WAŁĘSA Someone bowed over me for a long time. This sweet bow, filled with both freshness The shadow did not weigh upon and scorching heat is silent reciprocity. the rim of my brow. As the light brimmed with green, Closed within that embrace — as a like a hueless green, caress upon the face after which there is an indescribable green resting upon drops wonder and silence, wordless silence with of blood. nothing to understand or consider. In that silence I sense, above me, God’s This sweet bow, filled with both freshness bow and scorching heat which falls within me, yet remains above, (Karol Wojtyła — Hymn of even as it passes nearby — in that very the Hidden God) 15 January 1981

common path, a common history, common around; each of your steps is controlled in your the Polish Pope we would have never been able dreams, common actions, one single object- country by 200,000 Soviet soldiers; around Po- to organize ourselves. We would not have won. A ive: the good of mankind. And then our land there are more than a million; there are silos Thanks to the Holy Father we rose up with destiny, the destiny of Poland that is so close to filled with nuclear weapons. faith and moral integrity, ever loyal to the idea of our heart and — in light of this closeness — the The freedom movements had no chance of de- a peaceful struggle. We owe a great deal to the destiny of the world that changes by the action of feating communism, but John Paul II arrived pre- Pope. How would things have gone, if Cardinal mankind, though not always for their good. To cisely in that moment. The election of the Polish Karol Wojtyła had not become Pope? One day change the face of this earth, restore it, respect it, communism would have fallen anyway, but prob- Pope and his first pilgrimage to Poland in 1979 love it with faith, hope and charity. He gave us ably with bloodshed. changed the course of events. Suddenly we real- the verb and we translated it into victory. John Paul II contributed to the fall of the Ber- Faith and solidarity together make miracles. ized how many of us there were and that lin Wall and to the overturning of the entire sys- Communism worked according to a simple philo- everything was possible. tem. He encouraged society to protest, but also to sophy: do not allow the people to unite, to organ- This reawakening spurred Poles to be led by do so in an intelligent, peaceful and honest way. ize around a common idea, in peaceful struggle. small opposition groups that then merged into a The whole world used to tell us: stop fooling very strong movement like Solidarność. Without CONTINUED ON PA G E 10 page 10 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 22 May 2020, number 21

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

Decree of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments Inscription of the celebration of Saint Faustina Kowalska in the General Roman Calendar

CONGREGATION FOR DIVINE WORSHIP year 2000 by Saint John Paul II, the name of AND THE DISCIPLINE OF THE Faustina quickly became known around the SACRAMENTS world, thereby promoting in all the parts of the People of God, Pastors and lay faithful alike, the Prot. N. 229/20 invocation of Divine Mercy and its credible wit- ness in the conduct of the lives of believers. DECREE Therefore the Supreme Pontiff Francis, accept- ing the petitions and wishes of Pastors, religious on the inscription of the celebration of women and men, as well as associations of the Saint Faustina Kowalska, virgin, faithful and having considered the influence exer- in the General Roman Calendar cised by the spirituality of Saint Faustina in dif- ferent parts of the world, has decreed that the “His mercy is for those who fear him from gener- name of Saint Maria Faustina (Helena) Kowal- ation to generation” (Lk 1:50). What the Virgin ska, virgin, be inscribed in the General Roman Mary sang in the Ma g n i f i c a t , contemplating the Calendar and that her optional memorial be cel- salvific work of God in favour of every human ebrated by all on 5 October. generation, found an echo in the spiritual en- This new memorial shall be inserted into all the counters of Saint Faustina Kowalska who, Calendars and liturgical books for the celebration through a heavenly gift, saw in the Lord Jesus of the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours, adopt- Christ the merciful face of the Father and became ing the liturgical texts attached to this decree its herald. which must be translated, approved and, after Born in the village of Głogowiec, near Łó dź, in confirmation by this , published by the Poland in 1905, and dying in Krakow in 1938, Episcopal Conferences. Saint Faustina spent her short life amongst the Anything to the contrary notwithstanding. Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, generously con- forming herself to the vocation she received from From the Congregation for Divine Worship and God and developing an intense spiritual life, rich Mercy she understood that no human wretched- the Discipline of the Sacraments, 18 May 2020. in spiritual gifts and in faithful harmony with ness could measure itself against the mercy which them. In the Diary of her soul, the sanctuary of ceaselessly pours from the heart of Christ. Thus Cardinal ROBERT SARAH her encounter with the Lord Jesus, she herself re- she became the inspiration for a movement dedic- P re f e c t counts what the Lord worked in her for the bene- ated to proclaiming and imploring Divine Mercy A rc h b i s h o p ARTHUR RO CHE fit of all: listening to Him who is Love and throughout the whole world. Canonized in the S e c re t a r y

Go d’s bow before Inauguration of Saint John Paul II Institute of Culture mankind’s history CONTINUED FROM PA G E 5 in a magisterial way by the Angelic you, dear brother, and to all those Doctor, will certainly favour this who have established the new Insti- CONTINUED FROM PA G E 9 of Saint Thomas Aquinas. The An- project, so that it will be character- tute. To the professors, students and gelicum in fact houses an academic ized by the courage of the truth, staff I send my best wishes for their He always defended the poor and community comprising professors freedom of spirit and intellectual work, and to all I cordially impart the oppressed; with strength and and students from throughout the honesty (cf. SAINT PAU L VI, Apostol- my Apostolic Blessing. conviction he opposed armed world and is a fitting place for inter- ic Letter Lumen Ecclesiae, 20 Novem- conflicts, wars and injustices, the preting the important challenges of Rome, Saint John Lateran, ber 1974, 8; SAINT JOHN PAU L II, suppression of peoples and of in- to day’s cultures. The tradition of the 18 May 2020 dividuals. For him each person , with the import- Encyclical Letter Fides et Ratio, 43). was unique and important. ant role given to rational reflection With these sentiments, I renew I met the Holy Father many on faith and its content, articulated my encouragement and gratitude to times. These encounters were al- ways emotional and moving, but they never lacked a substantial exchange of opinions. I must honestly say that we understood He continues to be our contemporary each other without words, and on issues that others would debate CONTINUED FROM PA G E 9 of the new coronavirus. Under these conditions we are for weeks without reaching an truly forced to re-examine many things. I am certain agreement, we managed to under- mankind and on the new challenges placed before the that John Paul II would have supported the call to de- stand each other in a very short world to be confronted in the current millennium. The militarize international relations and the political men- time, with complete comprehen- Pope reflected deeply on the global world, on our tality, and to reduce military spending. sion, mutual acceptance and satis- shared responsibility to preserve life on the planet and In the politics of all countries the issue of the safety faction for both parties. to save the planet earth itself. of mankind, of the protection of our health and of the I am convinced that the Holy Today, like never before, it must be clear that all the environment, of the creation of just conditions for the Spirit has always guided and to problems recently observed by humanity cannot be re- dignified life of every single individual who lives on our this day continues to guide the solved by means and methods that used to seem ad- planet must be addressed as the top priority. actions of the Church and of equate and have been used before. I previously spoke of The world is passing through a difficult period and is people thanks to whom one can it in 1988 in my address to the UN General Assembly. posing particular questions to us all, but above all to do things that seem impossible, I took the liberty of quoting these words as I am con- politicians. Today the role of spiritual leaders is becom- change borders, change people, vinced that new challenges and new threats call for a ing even more important and full of responsibility. I change the face of the earth, this new mentality, based upon values that are shared by all would hope that they are able to manage this responsib- earth. John Paul II is an abso- worldwide confessions, by all the prevalent principles of ility by following and taking inspiration from the ex- lutely exceptional figure who will modern thought. Currently the world is experiencing an ample of Pope John Paul II. He continues to be our remain for ever in my heart. acute and overwhelming crisis caused by the pandemic contemporary even today. number 21, Friday, 22 May 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 11

KAROL WOJTYŁA: ONE HUNDRED YEARS

Pope Francis celebrates Holy Mass at the tomb The Lord has visited his people, he sent John Paul II

On the centenary of the birth of Saint people, and love of justice. Saint Close to those big and small, close Saint John Paul II did so that John Paul II, on Monday morning, 18 John Paul II was a man of God be- to those near and far, always close. people could understand God’s May, Pope Francis celebrated Mass at cause he p ra y e d , and he prayed a lot. He made himself close. mercy. Let us think about how he the tomb of the Pontiff-Saint in the But how did a man who had so The third trait, love of justice. But promoted devotion to Saint Faustina Vatican Basilica. The following is a much to do, so much work to lead full justice! A man who wanted [Kowalska], whose liturgical memory translation of Francis’ homily, which the Church..., have so much time to justice, social justice, the justice of beginning today will be for the entire pray? He was well aware that a bish- was delivered in Italian. peoples, the justice that drives away Church. He had heard that God’s op’s first task is to pray. And Vatican “The Lord loves his people” (cf. Ps wars. But full justice! For this reason justice had this face of mercy, this II did not say this; Saint Peter said 149:4), we sang, was the refrain of II attitude of mercy. And this is a gift it. When they made they Saint John Paul was a man of the Responsorial Psalm. And also a mercy, because justice and mercy that he left us: merciful justice and would say: ‘And to us bishops, pray- just mercy. truth that the people of Israel would er and the liturgy of the Word’ (cf. come together; they cannot be dis- repeat; they liked to repeat: “The Acts 6:4). A bishop’s first task is to tinguished [in the sense of being Let us pray to him today, that he Lord loves his people”. And in diffi- pray, and he knew this; he did this. separate], they are together: justice give to all of us, especially to the cult moments, always “the Lord The model of a bishop who prays, is justice, mercy is mercy, but one is pastors of the Church, but to every- loves”; one must wait for how this the first task. An he taught us that not found without the other. And one, the grace of prayer, the grace of love will manifest itself. When the when a bishop examines his con- speaking of the man of justice and closeness and the grace of just Lord sent, out of this love, a proph- science in the evening he must ask mercy, let us consider how much mercy, merciful justice. et, a man of God, the people’s reac- himself: how many hours did I pray tion was: “The Lord has visited his today? A man of prayer. p e o p l e“ (cf. Ex 4:31); because he loves them, he has visited them. And The second trait: a man of close- the multitude who followed Jesus, ness. He was not a man detached seeing the things that Jesus did, said from people, but instead he went to the same: ‘The Lord has visited his find people; and he travelled the en- p eople’(cf. Lk 7:16). tire world, finding his people, seek- ing his people, becoming close. And And today we here can say: 100 closeness is one of the features of years ago the Lord visited his people. God with his people. Let us recall He sent a man; he prepared him to that the Lord said to the people of be bishop and lead the Church. Re- Israel: ‘See, what people has its gods membering Saint John Paul II, let us so near as I am to you?’ (cf. Deut come back to this: “The Lord loves 4:7). A closeness of God with his his people”; “the Lord has visited people which is then made firm in his people”; he sent a pastor. Jesus, is made strong in Jesus. A And what are, let us say, the pastor is close to the people. On the ‘traits’ of a good pastor that we can contrary, if he is not so, he is not a find in Saint John Paul II? So many! pastor; he is a hierarch; he is an ad- But we shall only speak of three. ministrator, perhaps a good one, but Given that persons say Jesuits al- he is not a pastor. Closeness to the ways say things in threes, we shall people. And Saint John Paul II gave say three: prayer, closeness to the us the example of this closeness.

In the Vatican Basilica The poor as guests of honour Evangelically, the “place of honour” founded by Saint Teresa of Calcutta, belonged to them — the poorest — were touching when, following and it could not have been other- The meditation offered and At the end of Mass, Francis Communion, they delicately began wise at the Mass Pope Francis celeb- shared by Pope Francis was pro- prayed that God spark in everyone to sing Jesus Christ you are my life, rated on Monday morning, 18 May, foundly moving even before the “the flame of charity that ceaselessly the hymn which marked World in remembrance of Saint John Paul start of Mass. With the slow pace of fuelled the life of Saint John Paul Youth Day during the Jubilee of the II, 100 years after his birth. Yes, it prayer, slightly before 7:00 am, Fran- II”. Lastly, after the blessing, the Year 2000. was precisely them, the poor, the cis walked alone towards the altar Marian antiphon Regina Caeli was Thus, as the women religious, in “special diplomatic corps” a c c re d i t e d that is the tomb of Karol Wojtyła. re c i t e d . their blue-trimmed white saris, sang to , who bore witness by their His gaze caressed the Holy Door Precisely the sobriety and the spir- “Jesus Christ you are my life”, very presence, to the spiritual and and Michelangelo’s Pietà as his steps itual simplicity of the celebration between one refrain and the next it provided the opportunity to experi- social power of a commemorative were marked by the voices of a choir was like once again hearing the tired celebration, in order to live today ence it to the fullest. No distraction “c o l o u re d ” by the habits of the dif- yet youthful voice of John Paul II and build the future. could dispel its essential nature. In- ferent congregations of women reli- greeting that “sea” of young people Before Mass, they asked to make deed reciting a list of participants — gious. on the night in Tor Vergata: “T h e re Confession, “otherwise I do not feel highly limited by measures to con- Waiting for him beside the altar is a Polish proverb that says: ‘Kto z like participating and taking Com- tain the spread of the coronavirus — to concelebrate were Cardinal An- munion”, softly confided a young would almost subvert the value of kim przestaje, takim się staje’ which man who receives aid from “Dono di gelo Comastri, Archpriest of the Vat- this “Eucharistic” day of remem- means, ‘if you live with the youth, Ma r i a ”, a shelter for the homeless, ican Basilica, Cardinal Konrad Kra- brance. And it was certainly not the you too will become young.’ Thus, I in the Vatican that Pope Wojtyła jewski, Papal Master of Ceremonies time to request or share a memory, come back rejuvenated”. Yes saints wished to entrust to Mother Teresa under John Paul II, Archbishop Jan nor even an interview before or after are forever young. of Calcutta. And perhaps it is in this Romeo Pawłowski, Delegate for Mass. Prayer prevailed. Silence. And Pope Wojtyła’s comment as very gesture and in the words of this Pontifical Representations, and This very style suggested by Pope he bid farewell to the youth in Tor man — offhandedly labelled as Archbishop Piero Marini who for 18 Francis enabled the voice and wit- Vergata revealed itself to be right on “p o or”— that we can understand years was beside Karol Wojtyła as ness of Saint John Paul II to be target: “This ‘noise’ has struck Rome the meaning of the celebration and Master of Pontifical Liturgical Cel- “h e a rd ” interiorly once again. and Rome will never forget it!” And even the icon of the meditation sug- ebrations. With them were also 12 And in this sense, the Missionary it is true, Rome and the world have gested by Francis in his homily. priests. Sisters of Charity, the congregation not forgotten. page 12 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 22 May 2020, number 21

REGINA CAELI

On Sunday, 17 May, on the eve of the centenary of the birth of Saint John Paul II, the Holy Father prayed for the Saint’s continued intercession from heaven, “for the People of God and for peace in the world”. Earlier, Pope Francis had reflected on the day’s reading from the Gospel of John (14:15-21) on observing the commandments and the promise of the Holy Spirit. The following is a translation of his reflection, which was given in Italian from the library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace.

May he continue to intercede for peace in the world Pope Francis recalls his predecessor John Paul II

Dear Brothers and Sisters, self guides them, enlightens them, how to listen to the Word of God In some countries liturgical cel- Good Morning! strengthens them, so that every- and to welcome the gift of the ebrations with the faithful have one may walk in life, even Holy Spirit, help us to live the This Sunday’s Gospel passage resumed; in others the possibility through adversity and difficulty, Gospel with joy, knowing that we (cf. Jn 14:15-21) presents two mes- is being considered. In Italy, be- in joys and sorrows, remaining on are sustained by the Spirit, the sages: observance of the com- ginning tomorrow it will be pos- Jesus’ path. This is possible pre- divine fire that warms our hearts mandments and the promise of sible to celebrate Holy Mass with cisely by remaining docile to the and illuminates our steps. the Holy Spirit. the people; but please, let us pro- Holy Spirit, so that, through his ceed with the rules, the recom- Jesus links love for him to ob- presence at work in us, he may After the Regina Caeli, the Holy mendations they give us, so as to servance of the commandments, and not only console but transform Father continued: protect the health of each person he insists on this in his farewell hearts, opening them up to truth Dear Brothers and Sisters, to- and of the people. discourse: “If you love me, then and love. you will keep my command- morrow is the centenary of the In the month of May, in many Faced with the experience of ments” (v. 15); “He who has my birth of Saint John Paul II, in parishes it is traditional to celeb- error and sin — which we all do — commandments and keeps them, Wadowice, Poland. Let us re- rate Masses for First Commu- the Holy Spirit helps us not to he it is who loves me” (v. 21). Je- member him with great affection nion. Clearly, due to the pandem- succumb and enables us to grasp sus asks us to love him, but ex- and gratitude. Tomorrow morn- ic, this beautiful moment of faith and fully live the meaning of Je- plains: this love does not end in a ing, at 7 o’clock, I will celebrate and celebration has been post- sus’ words: “If you love me, you desire for him, or in a feeling, no; Holy Mass, which will be broad- poned. Therefore I wish to send will keep my commandments” ( v. it demands the willingness to fol- cast throughout the world, at the an affectionate thought to the 15). The commandments are not low his way, that is, the will of altar where his mortal remains given to us as a kind of mirror in boys and girls who should have the Father. And this is summar- rest. From Heaven may he con- which to see the reflection of our received the Eucharist for the first ized in the commandment of mu- tinue to intercede for the People miseries, our inconsistencies. No, time. Dear boys and girls, I invite tual love — the first love [in its of God and for peace in the they are not like that. The Word world. you to experience this time of fulfillment] — given by Jesus him- waiting as an opportunity to pre- self: “even as I have loved you, of God is given to us as the Word of life, pare yourselves better: by pray- that you also love one another” ing, reading your catechism book (Jn 13:34). He did not say, ‘Love which transforms the heart, life; which re- to deepen your knowledge of Je- me as I have loved you’, but ‘love sus, and growing in goodness and one another as I have loved you’. news, which does not judge in order to con- in service to others. I wish you a He loves us without asking us to good journey. do the same in return. Jesus’ love demn, but heals and is a gratuitous love; he never asks has forgiveness as its Today is the beginning of for the same in return. And he aim. God’s mercy is Laudato Si’ Week, which will end wants this gratuitous love of his thus. A Word that is next Sunday, in which we remem- to become the concrete form of light for our steps. All ber the fifth anniversary of the life among us: this is his will. this is the work of the publication of the Encyclical. In Holy Spirit! He is the To help the disciples walk this these times of the pandemic, in Gift of God; he is path, Jesus promises to pray for which we are more aware of the God himself, who the Father to send “another importance of care for our com- Counselor” (v. 16), that is, a Con- helps us to be free mon home, I hope that all the soler, a Defender, who will take people, people who common reflection and commit- his place and give them the intel- want and know how ment may help to create and ligence to listen and the courage to love, people who strengthen constructive attitudes to observe his words. This is the understand that life is for the care of creation. Holy Spirit, who is the Gift of a mission to proclaim And I wish you all a happy the wonders that the Go d’s love thatdescends into the Sunday. Please, do not forget to Lord accomplishes in heart of the Christian. After Jesus pray for me. Enjoy your lunch. those who trust in has died and risen, his love is giv- Ar r i v e d e rc i en to those who believe in him him. and are baptized in the name of May the Virgin the Father and of the Son and of Mary, model of the the Holy Spirit. The Spirit him- Church, who knows April 12, 1993