John Paul II unforgotten in Poland

Polish Pope John Paul II died ten years ago today

The holy father will forever remain in the memory of Poles, the liberal daily Gazeta Wyborcza writes in his tribute:

“It’s clear that Church historians will go on squabbling over how to assess his pontificate – just as they do with other popes. But it’s just as clear that for Poles John Paul II is one of the most significant figures of his time. There is no doubt, however, that everyone will interpret this significance differently. What he achieved was exceptional. He gave the Poles – and not only them – a renewed sense of dignity. He gave hope and aroused aspirations for freedom. He was loved and admired. And he even earned the respect of those who disapproved of the public activities of the priest from Wadowice who later became cardinal of Kraków and pope.”