Pope Francis: John Paul II left an indelible mark on the Church

By Barbara Castelli

“I wish to express my appreciation for the cultural and pastoral initiatives promoted by the diocese of Alba in order to remember the teachings and the exemplary nature of life” of Saint John Paul II, who “left an indelible mark on the Church and on society”. Those are the words of Pope Francis in a letter addressed to the Bishop of Alba, Marco Brunetti, on the occasion of a conference on the 40th anniversary of Karol Wojtyla's election to the Chair of Peter.

In the letter, dated August 1, 2018, Pope Francis said he hopes that this initiative will arouse the “desire to devote oneself with missionary zeal to the service of the Gospel.” He concluded, “May the rediscovery of the witness of my venerable Predecessor's fidelity to God and love for man, encourage everyone, especially young people, to open wide the doors to Christ for a generous commitment to peace, fraternity, and solidarity.”