I also remember well the arrival of Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Vatican. He was at the Vatican in June 2000. Proud, he showed his independence. But, he very positively surprised everyone with one gesture. In the library on the stand there was a unique icon, Our Lady of Kazan. During the meeting, Putin suddenly asked if he could kiss the icon. “Of course” – replied John Paul II. The Russian President approached the icon, made the sign of the cross and kissed it. This amazed and surprised everyone.
In the same year, the Holy Father donated this icon to the Russian Orthodox Church. A special delegation led by Cardinal Walter Kasper took it to Moscow on behalf of the Pope. The Holy Father wanted to do this personally during the pilgrimage to Russia. Many times, it seemed that it would be possible. There were various proposals, conversations with the patriarchy. At one point, it was reported that Patriarch Alexei might meet with John Paul II in Vienna, other times in Switzerland. The Pope was looking forward to this meeting. Unfortunately, it did not happen. The pilgrimage to Russia remained only an unfulfilled dream.
Secretary of two Popes – conversation with Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki.
Wydawnictwo Literackie Publishing House
