On April 2, 2025, twenty years had passed since the death of Saint John Paul II, the charismatic Pope and an essential figure in the contemporary history of the Catholic Church and the world. To mark this significant date, a solemn Mass was celebrated in his memory, bringing together faithful, religious figures, diplomats, and representatives from various nations in a profound display of faith, gratitude, and unity.
The Eucharistic celebration took place at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, representing the Holy Father. Several cardinals, bishops, and priests from different countries concelebrated, vividly expressing the universal nature of John Paul II’s pontificate.
During the homily, Cardinal Parolin recalled the life, ministry, and spiritual legacy of Karol Wojtyła, highlighting his tireless defense of human dignity, peace, and freedom. “Saint John Paul II was an untiring pilgrim of faith, a herald of hope, and a passionate defender of truth. His teaching remains relevant and necessary, especially in a world marked by so many spiritual and social challenges,” he stated.
The ceremony featured deeply moving moments, particularly during the reading of excerpts from his most iconic encyclicals and speeches, such as Redemptor Hominis and Evangelium Vitae. The memory of the Polish Pope remains alive in the hearts of the faithful, who fondly remember his closeness to the young, the poor, and the suffering.
The celebration also had a strong international character, reflecting the role John Paul II played in interreligious dialogue, the promotion of human rights, and the building of bridges between peoples and cultures. Diplomats accredited to the Holy See, including H.E Raúl Domingos, Ambassador of the Republic of Mozambique to the Holy See, took part in the ceremony, paying tribute to the Pope who, over more than 26 years of pontificate, left a profound mark on the history of the Church and the world.
