POPE JOHN PAUL II

Today, Pope John Paul 11 will be beatified in Rome.  Beatification is the final step on the road to canonisation and Pope John Paul will now be known as Blessed John Paul, Pope.  The memory of this great Pope is fresh for most of us, so we can allow ourselves to share in the rejoicing that marks this great event.  Pope John Paul was an outstanding figure on the world stage in his leadership and guidance of the Church.  His beatification is a confirmation that behind the public figure was great holiness of life.  All his life was informed by a deep faith in Jesus Christ as his Saviour and Redeemer.  We have much to learn from his example.  We can pray that our lives will continue to be informed and guided by the teaching and example of Jesus.