Twelve years ago, a beatification mass for Pope John Paul II was held at St. Peter’s Square in Rome. Three years later, the Holy Father was canonized.
The ceremony was led by his successor, Pope Benedict XVI, and was co-celebrated by several thousand cardinals, archbishops, and bishops from around the world. The process of beatification and canonization for John Paul II began with the demand for santo subito, meaning “saint immediately”, which was a slogan displayed on banners by the people gathered during the funeral of Pope John Paul II at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
The beatification process for John Paul II lasted five and a half years and was one of the shortest in history.
Pope John Paul II was a beloved figure around the world, known for his tireless advocacy for peace, social justice, and interfaith dialogue. He served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church for 26 years, from 1978 until his death in 2005.
The beatification mass at St. Peter’s Square in Rome was attended by thousands of pilgrims from all over the world, who had come to pay tribute to the late Pope. The atmosphere was one of solemnity and reverence, as people gathered to honor the life and legacy of a great spiritual leader.
The ceremony was marked by the reading of the decree of beatification by Pope Benedict XVI, which declared that John Paul II was worthy of veneration by the faithful. This was followed by the unveiling of a large portrait of the newly beatified Pope, which was greeted with cheers and applause from the crowd.
The beatification of John Paul II was a significant event for the Catholic Church, as it recognized his exceptional service and devotion to the faith. It was also a source of comfort and inspiration for millions of Catholics around the world, who continue to look to the late Pope as a model of faith, courage, and compassion.