04:24 PM CST on Saturday, April 2, 2005

BISHOP VASQUEZ PRESS RELEASE ON THE DEATH OF POPE JOHN PAUL II

For more than 26 years John Paul II has guided the Roman Catholic Church. There are many achievements that can be mentioned about John Paul among which are the following:

He was a writer, a philosopher, a theologian, a play write, a poet, a promoter of social justice and pastor.

Cardinal Karol Wojtyla was elected Pope, Oct. 1978 and was the first non-Italian in over 450 years. From the beginning, his presence communicated strength combined with warmth and joy. He brought a message of hope to many peoples throughout the world having made over 100 pastoral trips.

His message was also prophetic. He challenged world leaders and politicians to seek justice and equality for their particular nations and beyond. He saw that all humans are God's children full of dignity and worthy of respect. This extended to the poor, to the immigrant, to children, to youth, to the aged and the sick. He lived this message by continuing to serve as leader of 1 billion Catholics even during his struggle with Parkinson and other illnesses.

Personally speaking, my faith has grown having had the opportunity to meet the Holy Father on several occasions, as a seminarian, deacon, priest and bishop. I have been blessed. After being in the presence of the Pope, one cannot help but feel encouraged and hopeful. He was personable with all peoples and ages. His humanness and love touched the young people in particular.

The Holy Father's passing is deeply felt by the Hispanics around the world. His first pastoral visit to another country was to Mexico where he won the hearts of people and they won over his heart. He visited various countries in Central and South America, Spain and reminded the people of their traditions especially devotion and love to Mary. The fact that John Paul II appointed Hispanic bishops and cardinals is a sign of his recognizing the growing Hispanic population.

As Christ came to the world to serve and not to be served, so the legacy Pope John Paul II has been one of service to the Church and to the world. He took seriously the title that was given to him as Pope, Servant of the Servants of Christ.

-- Bishop Joe S. Vasquez