Feast day of Saint Pope John Paul II

“The future starts today, not tomorrow!”
St. Pope John Paul II

This is a very special day, the feast day of Saint Pope John Paul II. His life inspires us. He bridged many divides with a synthesis that at once honored old traditions and created new ones. In a particular way he continues to speak directly to us on so many important issues as individuals, as a civilization, and especially as a University. He wrote:

“In this context, Catholic Universities are called to a continuous renewal, both as “Universities” and as “Catholic.” For, “What is at stake is the very meaning of scientific and technological research, of social life and of culture, but, on an even more profound level, what is at stake is the very meaning of the human person”(10). (7 Ex Corde Ecclesiae)

As a son of Poland, formed by faith and the hardships of totalitarian occupation, first by the Nazis and then by the Communists, this saint understood the power of love and culture to shape individuals and society. Through him, the Holy Spirit freed Poland and the rest of Eastern Europe from tyranny. With his first Homily as Pope in 1978, he continues to inspire us with, “Fear not, open wide the doors to Christ!” And so, we remember him this day and each day as we build a bold civilization of love, a fearless culture that embraces the most positive change to ever come into the world — Jesus Christ.

Saint Pope John Paul II, Pray for us!

With hope and joy,

Richard L. Ludwick
President