Pope John Paul II
Pope John Paul II, born Karol Wojtyła in Poland, served as pope from 1978 until his death in 2005. He was the first non-Italian pope in 455 years and played a crucial role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, particularly in his native Poland. Throughout his papacy, he emphasized interfaith dialogue, social justice, and the importance of human rights. His charismatic presence and extensive travels made him one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century. He is also known for his forgiveness of Mehmet Ali Ağca, the man who attempted to assassinate him in 1981.
Born on May 18, 1920 (105 years old)
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United Kingdom:
Pope John Paul II wrote encyclicals in Castel Gandolfo.
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Slovenia:
Pope John Paul II celebrated a mass at the same venue in 1994.
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Pakistan:
Pope John Paul II visited his would-be assassin, Mehmet Ali Ağca, in a gesture of compassion.
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South Africa:
We had the honour to cater for and subsequently meet Pope John Paul II when he visited South Africa.
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Canada:
Jean-Charles de Castelbajac is famed for dressing Pope John Paul II.
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North Macedonia:
Pope John Paul II proclaimed Cyril and Methodius as the co-patrons of Europe in 1980.
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Hong Kong:
Pope John Paul II continued the critique of capitalism in his encyclical centenary of Rerum Novarum.
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Vietnam:
Pope John Paul II passed away in 2005, after which the papal apartment has not been significantly upgraded.
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Tanzania:
Pope John Paul II became the first pontiff to visit a synagogue, giving a speech in Rome’s main temple in 1986.
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Argentina:
Pope John Paul II revealed the third prophecy of Fátima in May 2000.
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