skateboarding…..

Before chosing the name Jean Paul II, he was born as Karol Jozef Wojtyla on May 18, 1920, in
Poland. He was elected Pope in 1978, and was the first non-Italian Pope in 455 years. The fascinating pontiff, led the world’s 1 billion Catholics during 26 years. John Paul was the most traveled pope in history and was the first to visit the White House, a synagogue, and communist Cuba (Jean Paul inspired the drive to end communism in
Eastern Europe). He was know for his courage, energy and integrity. He spoke 9 languages and drew enormous crowds in his public appearances.

He was slowed in recent years by Parkinson’s disease and crippling arthritis. His health deteriorated severely during his last weeks. He was slipping in and out of consciousness after his heart and kidneys started to fail. John Paul II died at 9:37 p.m, Saturday, April 2, 2005 in his private apartment at the
Vatican.

Archbishop Leonardo Sandri asked for a few moments of silence as he announced the death to thousand of fellows congregated in St. Peter’s Square. People in the crowd and all over the world bowed their heads to pray, most of them in tears.

Pope John Paul II will always be remembered as “Champion of human freedom” , a “tireless advocate of peace”, “and a man with a wonderful sense of humor” who was easy to talk to.

Here’s a link to the article. Click here.