On the passing of Pope John Paul II
 

by Tony Blaz - 
KUAM's Political Insider
April 6, 2004

Over the past few days, the eyes of the world have been fixed on Rome where millions have filed past the remains of Pope John Paul II to pay their final respects. His funeral mass will coincide with the Celebration of the Eucharist that will take place tonight at our Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral Basilica in Hagatna at 7pm.

His Holiness Pope John Paul II touched the lives of millions of people everywhere. Lauded by Catholics and non-Catholics alike as a "man of faith", a "man of selfless love". His life will serve as an example of great humility, devotion and love. Steadfast in his mission of evangelism and his desire to strengthen our church, it seemed as if he relished the great pain and suffering, humbly offering all of his pain to God, giving true meaning to his papal motto: "Totus tuus", which means "Totally yours."

John Paul II followed the way of Christ in everything he did. As our church's leader, he often scolded world leaders admonishing them on issues of human rights and poverty. He championed the cause of the poor and the sick and he endeared himself to the youth. His evangelical visits throughout the world emboldened church leaders and the faithful and he is credited for helping to rid the world of Communism and remove dictators from power.

Watching the televised coverage of John Paul II's viewing, I wondered to myself, why has there been such a tremendous outpour of love for this man? At a time when the world has to contend with issues like abortion, poverty, injustice, discrimination and euthanasia and when some members of society feel that saving the well, is more important than saving the life of a fellow human being like Terry Schiavo, I say it's no wonder why. There are millions of us who are longing for something good. 

Something or someone that will uplift us spiritually. John Paul II was that someone. He was humanity's breath of fresh of air in a world that is heavily polluted. Pope John Paul II life gives us the assurance that in the end good always triumphs over evil!

The world is a better place having been enriched by a "Man of God", of faith, a humble, unassuming, a gentle and a compassionate man. John Paul II's life is proof positive of the wondrous love God has for his people. His gift to humanity in the person of John Paul II is reason for all of us to loudly proclaim our grateful appreciation saying, "Glory to God in the Highest!"    

Tony Blaz hosts "Positively Local", a radio talkshow on Isla61-AM everyday from 6-10am