(Vatican Radio) Official Commemorative Medals in Bronze and Silver are
to be issued on the 3rd of March to mark the Canonization of Popes John XXIII and
John Paul II. On the obverse side of the medal will be the coats of arms of Pope Francis,
while on the reverse side there will be a profile of the two Pope's with the text
IOANNES XXIII ET IOANNES PAV LVS II SANCTI PROCLAMANTVR XXVII APR. MMXI. The medals
will be issued by the Vatican's Philatelic and Numismatic Office
On 27
April 2014 His Holiness Pope Francis will proclaim Saints his predecessors John
XXIII and John Paul II. It will mark a special moment of joy and prayer for the
faithful around the world who will gather in St. Peter’s Square, but also the start
of a journey to eternal glory celebrated by the Catholic Church. Blessed John XXIII
is commonly known as “Good Pope John”. The name recalls not only the physical features
of his face, remembered affectionately by so many faithful, but also his nature
as a caring shepherd who never missed an opportunity to offer consolation with
just a few simple words for those in need. His fundamental historical inspiration
was to convoke the Second Vatican Council, which he strongly desired and opened
on 11 October 1962. The Council marked a turning point in the Church’s history.
Pope John XXIII died on 3 June 1963, and it was during the sad days of bidding him
farewell that it became clear how widely he was loved and how crucial his Magisterium
was. Pope John Paul II guided the Church into the new millennium. He is considered
one of the most significant and influential popes in modern history, not only by
the Church, but the entire world. Here are just a few of the more prominent aspects
which sum up his extraordinary pontificate: apostolic journeys around the world;
commitment to ecumenical dialogue; constant defense of moral values, life and the
family; his close rapport with people and especially the youth, the promulgation
of the Catechism of the Catholic Church; the spirit with which he faced illness,
especially during his final days.