02-04-2005
Born in a town of Wadowice in Poland, on May 18, 1920, Karol Josef Wojtyla was the son of a retired army officer and a school teacher. He secretly studied theology during the Nazi occupation of Poland. By the age of 36, he had two doctorate degreess and was a professor of ethics. He became a cardinal at age 47. In October 1978, Wojtyla became the first Slavic pope ever and the first non-Italian pope in 455 years. He took the name John Paul II. He was in all aspects a man of integrity. He led the church in a conservative way, which caused much opposition, yet he did not yield to pressure. He made some unpopular decisions, but remained true to himself and his calling. May he live on in our memory as a great man who fought against war and poverty, as well as a man, who wanted to surpass the barriers between different religions and states.
Rest in Peace Karol Josef Wojtyla � John Paul II.
posted by Sebatianos // 02-04-2005 // permalink