On April 2, 2005, John Paul II died. A few days later, on April 8, his funeral took place. At this time, the Pope’s immediate surroundings should leave the Apostolic Palace. This is done according to church regulations. In the old days, it was necessary to move out immediately when the Pope died. John Paul II changed this by extending this period until the funeral.
After the death of the Holy Father, the bedroom and his office were sealed. For several days we could use the chapel, dining room and several other rooms. I asked priests from the Archdiocese of Lviv, who were studying in Rome, to help me with packing. They brought cardboard boxes. They put in them books, personal belongings, some small souvenirs that I received from friends. I was depressed by the death of the Holy Father. Moving was the last thing I thought about.
– How the last moments before leaving the Apostolic Palace looked like? In the place where you lived for over nine years?
– Priest Kamerling came with a commission to officially pick up the abandoned apartments. And, when these activities were over, we were about to leave…
There was a moment of silence, maybe hesitation? We, the household members, left the place where we lived together with the great, holy pope. And we went…, but to the chapel. For the last time. Thank God. It got very sad. I remembered the moments spent with John Paul II. His good heart, kindness.
Secretary of two Holy Fathers – conversation with Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki.
Wydawnictwo Literackie Publishing House
