Cardinal Dziwisz: John Paul II was ‘a builder of peace and dialogue’

By Fr Andrea Vena and Fr Paweł Rytel-Andrianik

The liturgical memory of Pope Saint John Paul II coincides with the anniversary of the start of his papacy, October 22, 1978.

Speaking to Vatican News, Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz stressed that John Paul II’s teachings on peace are more relevant than ever, given the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

“Engaging in effective negotiations is not a humiliation”

“It is never too late to agree and continue discussions. Reflecting on one’s duties, engaging in energetic negotiations does not mean being humiliated, but working responsibly for peace,” said Jean-Paul II during the Angelus. on March 16, 2003, just before the outbreak of the Iraq War.

Cardinal Dziwisz, who served as John Paul II’s personal secretary for 39 years, reiterated in the interview that the Polish pope was doing everything possible to promote world peace.

“I believe that today the teachings of John Paul II are more relevant than ever, given the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East,” he remarked.

“Do not be afraid” – A timeless appeal

During the Eucharistic celebration marking the start of his pontificate on October 22, 1978, John Paul II delivered his emblematic message: “Do not be afraid! Open the doors wide to Christ!

Referring to these words, Cardinal Dziwisz stressed that this remains a daily appeal, still relevant for the Church, the modern world, individuals and various communities.

Reflecting on the teachings of John Paul II, which encompassed peace, defense of life, workers’ rights, the dignity of politics, appreciation of feminine genius, the Eucharist and divine mercy, Cardinal Dziwisz expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for his strong stance on the sanctity of life.

“We are grateful for the words spoken by Pope Francis in Brussels,” said the Cardinal, as the Pope defended the dignity of human life from its beginning to its natural end.

Pope Francis and John Paul II

“We particularly need his example and his fatherly concern, but one cannot fully understand Saint John Paul II without knowing Karol Wojtyła,” Pope Francis wrote in the introduction to the recently published book. Meta is bliss (The goal is happiness).

The book, printed in Italian, includes 366 mostly unpublished writings, dating from before the pontificate of Karol Wojtyła.

Reflecting on these words, Cardinal Dziwisz pointed out that John Paul II named Father Jorge Bergoglio a bishop in Argentina and then created him a cardinal.

In conclusion, Cardinal Dziwisz urged everyone to seek the truth and find trustworthy guidance in the teachings of each pope, each a successor of St. Peter.