Today, April 2, 2025, marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II, a figure whose influence extended far beyond the Vatican walls. In honor of his legacy, the film Non avere paura – Un’amicizia con Papa Wojtyla will air tonight on Rai1 at approximately 21:35, following the popular game show Affari Tuoi. This film is based on the book by Lino Zani, an accomplished alpinist who shares his unique friendship with the Pope.
Pope John Paul II, born Karol Wojtyla, first met Lino Zani on July 16, 1984, during a vacation at the Adamello, a majestic mountain range in northern Italy. Their meeting was not just a chance encounter; it was the beginning of a profound friendship that would last until the Pope's passing in 2005. The bond between the two men solidified over a plate of strozzapreti, a traditional homemade pasta prepared by Zani's mother, at the Rifugio delle Lobbie, located over 3,000 meters above sea level.
The meeting was initially intended to be a secret getaway for the Pope. However, the presence of the then-President of Italy, Sandro Pertini, who arrived by helicopter, made it public knowledge. Zani reminisced about this pivotal moment during a presentation of his book, stating, "I met Pope John Paul II at Adamello. I was 25 years old; it was thrilling, very direct and open. It all began with an invitation letter from a ski instructor."
Throughout the years, Zani had the privilege of accompanying the Pope on numerous skiing trips, allowing him to see the man behind the papal title. This experience was also depicted in a 2013 television film titled Non avere paura, which Zani described as a heartfelt portrayal of their friendship.
For 21 years, Zani skied alongside the Pope, often in secret locations such as Campo Felice and Terminillo. The pair would venture out of the Vatican incognito, enjoying the tranquility of the mountains. Zani noted, "The mountain rejuvenated him; the silences, the solitude, and the many hours of prayer were essential to him." Even after the Pope suffered a femur fracture in 1994, he continued to visit the mountains, taking walks until 2004, just a year before his death. Zani reflected on the Pope’s love for the outdoors, saying, "He prayed everywhere, and in those moments, he was not on earth but in contact with God."
The film airing tonight not only serves as a tribute to Pope John Paul II but also highlights the special connection he had with Zani. Through their shared experiences in the mountains, Zani learned about Wojtyla's perspective on life and faith. In his book, Era santo, era uomo, Zani recounts a poignant exchange with the Pope after showing him a photo from his first climb of an 8,000-meter mountain. The Pope asked, "Why do you want to go so high?" Zani explained his desire to know what lay beyond the summit. The Pope responded, "You can only go 'beyond' once, while you can only descend from the summit." This metaphor resonated deeply, suggesting that life’s journey involves not just reaching heights but also knowing when to step back.
As the film airs, viewers will have the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Pope John Paul II and the personal stories that defined his life. Zani's narrative captures the essence of a man who, despite his exalted position, cherished friendship, adventure, and the beauty of nature. The film, based on Zani's experiences, portrays not just the public figure but the private man who found solace in the mountains.
The friendship between Zani and Wojtyla showcases how bonds formed in unexpected places can lead to profound understanding and respect. Zani’s recollections provide a glimpse into the human side of a Pope who was beloved by many, illustrating that even those in the highest positions of power seek connection and companionship.
As the world remembers Pope John Paul II on this significant anniversary, the airing of Non avere paura – Un’amicizia con Papa Wojtyla serves as a reminder of his enduring influence and the friendships that shaped his life. Zani’s heartfelt recounting of their time together not only honors the Pope’s memory but also invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships and the impact of friendship.
In a time when the world often feels divided, Zani’s story reminds us of the power of connection and the importance of embracing those around us, just as Pope John Paul II did throughout his remarkable life.
