As the world marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II, various events are being organized to honor his legacy and teachings. In Szczecin, Poland, parishes and the archdiocese are coming together for a series of prayer vigils, reflecting the profound impact the late pontiff continues to have on the faithful.
On April 2, 2025, a theatrical performance titled "Holy Father, Thank You" will take place at the parish of Our Lady of the Rosary, located at ul. Lwowska 1, at 17:45. This performance, inspired by the thoughts of John Paul II and featuring actress Anna Gielarowska, aims to celebrate his life and contributions. According to Father Krzysztof Łuszczek, spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Szczecin-Kamień, this event is part of a larger vigil that will culminate in a prayer gathering at the statue of St. John Paul II on Jasne Błonia.
The evening will commence with the Apel Jasnogórski at 21:00, followed by a prayer vigil with the participation of the faithful. This gathering is expected to draw many attendees who wish to pay their respects and reflect on the teachings of the beloved pope.
The announcement of John Paul II's passing on the night of April 2-3, 2005, by the Press Office of the Holy See sent shockwaves around the globe. His funeral, which took place on April 8, 2005, in St. Peter's Square, was one of the largest gatherings of Christians in history, with estimates of 2 to 4 million people attending, and some sources suggesting as many as 5 million pilgrims traveled to Rome to pay their respects. The event was marked by the presence of four kings, five queens, and over 70 heads of state, showcasing the profound respect he garnered worldwide.
Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, who served as the long-time personal secretary to Pope John Paul II, emphasized that people are increasingly returning to his teachings. "Many outstanding people have gone down in history, have gone to the archives, little is said about them," Dziwisz remarked, adding that the memory of John Paul II "does not fade" but resonates with even greater force. As the 20th anniversary approaches, he expressed a desire to show that the Church continues to celebrate the legacy of a pope who remains alive and relevant in the hearts of many.
The meeting held at the Polish Embassy to the Holy See on April 1, 2025, was organized by Ambassador Adam Kwiatkowski and included notable figures such as Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz, Metropolitan Senior of the Archdiocese of Warsaw, and local government officials from Małopolska. The gathering served as a platform to reflect on the lasting impact of John Paul II’s teachings and the importance of his message in today’s world.
Archbishop Wojda, President of the Episcopate, also highlighted the significance of the anniversary, stating that many people have found their way to Christ through the guidance of St. John Paul II. "I think that the Pope remains in the hearts of not only believers but also many others who, although they did not profess the same faith in the one God, are still grateful for his pontificate, his witness of life, and his love for truth and holiness," he noted.
Wojda further emphasized that John Paul II was a great guide for those navigating the complexities of the modern world, not just for the faithful but for anyone seeking truth and goodness. He underscored that the pope’s legacy left a mark of holiness, kindness, and integrity on contemporary history, providing humanity with the essential qualities needed to fulfill their human and Christian vocations.
As the anniversary draws near, the Church and its followers are reminded of John Paul II’s enduring influence. His teachings continue to inspire and challenge individuals to seek deeper connections with each other and with their faith. The planned events in Szczecin and elsewhere serve as poignant reminders of his legacy and the ongoing relevance of his message in today’s society.
In a world that often feels divided, the memory of Pope John Paul II stands as a beacon of hope and unity. His call for love, compassion, and understanding resonates today, encouraging people to embrace their shared humanity and work towards a more harmonious existence. As communities gather to remember him, it is clear that his spirit lives on in the hearts of many, guiding them toward a brighter future.
