Vatican, 19 years ago John Paul II died

Nineteen years ago John Paul II died. He was one of the most beloved pontiffs of modern times. John Paul II was beatified on 1 May 2011 by his successor Pope Benedict XVI and proclaimed a saint on 27 April 2014 by Pope Francis. He is celebrated on the day of his inauguration, 22 October. He is patron of Youth Day.

"On 2 April 2005, Karol Józef Wojtyła, Pope John Paul II, ascended to heaven. A man of God close to the people, a Pontiff with a missionary spirit who was able to promote inter-religious dialogue, enter people's hearts with his humanity and bring many young people closer to the faith. A great Pope, a Saint, but also a statesman. 'Political activity,' he said, 'comes from man, is exercised through man and is for man'. I always carry in my heart the teachings he left to all of us, with his work, his gestures, his words. I am grateful to have had the honour of meeting and knowing him. An immense and unforgettable figure. Forever in my heart'. So wrote Premier Giorgia Meloni on social media;