On 27 April 2024, a solemn Mass was celebrated in St Peter’s Basilica to thank God for the gift of the life and holiness of John Paul II.
It was presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. In his introduction to the liturgy he stated: “Ten years after his canonization and nineteen years after his death, Pope St. John Paul II is more alive than ever, in minds and hearts. His example and teaching have strengthened the faith and spoken to the heart of every person.”
The Eucharist was concelebrated by dozens of cardinals along with St. John Paul II’s personal secretary, Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, as well as numerous bishops and priests. It was attended by several thousands of the faithful from Italy, Poland and other countries. The Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, was present, as were representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See.
In his homily Cardinal Angelo Comastri referred to the day of the Polish pope’s funeral on April 8, 2005, recalling the moment when the wind began to turn the pages of the gospel book placed on the coffin. “We asked ourselves then: who was John Paul II? Why did we love him so much?” And he explained: “The invisible hand turning over the pages of the gospel seemed to be telling us: ‘The answer is in the Gospel! John Paul II’s life was a constant obedience to the Gospel of Jesus, and for this reason the wind told us! For this reason you loved him!”
Before the blessing Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz spoke, saying “We thank God for the fruits of faith, hope and love that the holiness of John Paul II brought, that he continues to bring to the Church. May his witness help us always open the door to Christ.” The cardinal expressed gratitude to Pope Benedict XVI, who opened the way for the beatification of the Polish Pope, and Pope Francis, who declared him a saint exactly 10 years ago. He thanked all those who took part in the ceremony. At the end, Cardinal Dziwisz placed a bouquet of white roses on the Holy Father’s tomb and said a special prayer commending the Church, families, the young and the cause of world peace to his intercession.
