Vatican, March 4, 2020
Dear Members and Friends of the John Paul II Foundation,
For many months with the great effort and commitment members of the John Paul II Foundation Chapters were preparing for the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of St. John Paul II – a date very important for the Foundation that bears His name.
Unfortunately, the world is facing the situation that no one could have foreseen and which brings a serious risk to human health. The media inform about the spread of the coronavirus, which causes many deaths in the world.
After numerous consultations, the Board of the John Paul II Foundation decided that in the current situation, the organization of anniversary celebrations in Rome carries too much risk. We decided to postpone the planned celebration of the 100th anniversary of St. John Paul II birthdate to the next year (April 25-27, 2021). On that date we will also celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Canonization of St. John Paul II, as well as the 40th anniversary of the establishment of our Foundation. The next year celebrations will provide a great opportunity to summarize the Jubilee Year of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Holy Father.
The decision was not easy, but it was dictated by a deep concern for the Members and Friends of our Foundation. To those who have already taken steps in connection with their planned arrival to Rome we would like to extend our apologies for any problems and difficulties.
Also, we would like to encourage to celebrate the birth anniversary of St. John Paul II in our Chapters, parishes, and dioceses and we are already inviting you to join us in our celebrations next year in Rome.
Let St. John Paul II, Patron of our Foundation, through His intercession with God, implore the necessary graces and bring help in these difficult times.
My sincere greetings and heartfelt blessings
Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko
President
Administrative Board of the John Paul II Foundation
