October 22: Blessed John Paul II

Saturday, October 22^nd: for the first time, the faithful all around the world are marking the liturgical feast day of Blessed John Paul II. Here at the Vatican, a prayer vigil for the afternoon in preparation for Mass in St Peter’s Basilica celebrated by the Cardinal-Vicar of Rome, Agostino Vallini has been organized by the Rome Vicariate – and similar initiatives are planned in dioceses throughout the world. The postulator of the cause of canonization for Blessed John Paul II, mons. Slawomir Oder spoke with us about the high anticipation for this, his first liturgical memory – something the people of God have desired since the very day he died.

Mons. Oder also talked with us about the great numbers of Carols, and Carolines, John Pauls and the countless variations, all namesakes of the great and Blessed Pope, who for the first time are celebrating their onomastic – their name day. We asked Mons. Oder how the cause is proceeding, and whether those who cried out “Santo subito!” have long to wait. “The real protagonist,” he said, “who undoubtedly will show us the best time, is God.” It will be God, he continued, “who will give us a sign so that the Church might consider whether to recognize a new miracle.” – and thus canonization. However, Mons. Oder says that he has received numerous significant testimonies, and is working with the Congregation to discern whether and how to go forward. He does say, however, that “many graces have [already] been obtained.” Listen Saturday, October 22^nd: for the first time, the faithful all around the world are marking the liturgical feast day of Blessed John Paul II. Here at the Vatican, a prayer vigil for the afternoon in preparation for Mass in St Peter’s Basilica celebrated by the Cardinal-Vicar of Rome, Agostino Vallini has been organized by the Rome Vicariate – and similar initiatives are planned in dioceses throughout the world. The postulator of the cause of canonization for Blessed John Paul II, mons. Slawomir Oder spoke with us about the high anticipation for this, his first liturgical memory – something the people of God have desired since the very day he died.

Mons. Oder also talked with us about the great numbers of Carols, and Carolines, John Pauls and the countless variations, all namesakes of the great and Blessed Pope, who for the first time are celebrating their onomastic – their name day. We asked Mons. Oder how the cause is proceeding, and whether those who cried out “Santo subito!” have long to wait. “The real protagonist,” he said, “who undoubtedly will show us the best time, is God.” It will be God, he continued, “who will give us a sign so that the Church might consider whether to recognize a new miracle.” – and thus canonization. However, Mons. Oder says that he has received numerous significant testimonies, and is working with the Congregation to discern whether and how to go forward. He does say, however, that “many graces have [already] been obtained.” Listen