In the last few years, he was trying so much to stop the Iraq war. However, it was not possible.
– These were the most difficult meetings and conversations when the Holy Father called in people and beg to stop the war. Like the one in the Persian Gulf. He fought for peace. He fought with word and prayer. He was very touched with suffering of people plagued by war and by the fact that those responsible for this war do not listen to the cry for peace. He met with George Bush, with Colin Powell, before that with Bill Clinton. Sometimes he called the Washington. He wrote to Saddam Hussein. He sent Cardinal Laghi to him with a spiritual mission.
– What was he saying when he knew that these meetings, letters, and conversations were not bringing any results? That war is ongoing?
– He did not say anything. He was praying even more. More often he was going to walk on the terrace. He was entrusting to Our Lady the war-torn countries and people, who were making the decision about peace or war over there. He felt so terrible and was very affected by this. And, I was seeing his suffering. However, in those moments he trusted the Lord God. There was no despair, there was no mental breakdown. There was prayer and trust. Even when nothing changed, his word and prayer continued in the consciousness of the world. The world knew by which side the Pope is standing, that he is always at the side of peace. The most important was that the people knew it.
– Was it easier for them?
– Because they were aware that someone is standing at their side. That at their side is the supreme authority of the Church and that he fights for their peaceful and dignified life. It was very important. That is why the Holy Father knew that this was necessary. And, he was doing everything that was possible, using different methods, especially diplomatic ones, to stop suffering.
With the consent of Archbishop Mokrzycki “He liked Tuesdays the most”
M Publisher, Kraków 2008
