Pope Benedict XVI has today declared the late Pope John Paul II blessed, bringing him one step closer to sainthood.
Benedict XVI beatified his predecessor in front of over a million pilgrims who had gathered in St Peter’s Square and other piazzas surrounding the Vatican.
Benedict XVI said the Polish pope had opened society, culture, political and economic systems to Christ, “turning back with the strength of a titan—a strength which came to him from God—a tide which appeared irreversible”.
Benedict XVI beatified his predecessor in front of over a million pilgrims who had gathered in St Peter’s Square and other piazzas surrounding the Vatican.
Benedict XVI said the Polish pope had opened society, culture, political and economic systems to Christ, “turning back with the strength of a titan—a strength which came to him from God—a tide which appeared irreversible”.
