2008 Woodie Awards
Pope's death unites world, brings uncertain future for Catholics
COMMENTARY
Issue date: 4/7/05 Section: Opinion/Editorial
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Commentators criticized the Pope's often strong political views and used his opinions to further their political agendas. They are detracting from the legacy of a man who many are already calling "John Paul the Great."
Standing by the Catholic faith, the most-traveled Pope in history disagreed with both those on the left and the right. Staunchly against the war in Iraq but keeping a firm stance against abortion, he stated, "In no case should abortion be promoted as a method of family planning."
The greatest diplomacy skill of John Paul II was his political maneuvering in professing credos of Catholicism, but managing to rise above partisanship of the countries where he traveled.
His death brings about constant talk in the press and on television of his proposals for advancing the Catholic agenda beyond the politics of a country. His visit to Cuba, an officially atheist country until 1992, in 1998 prompted the release by that country of 300 political prisoners. One of many goodwill gestures bestowed toward the Pope, it showed that the presence of John Paul II went beyond politics, if not criticism. The paradoxical Pope was above political argument in his holiness, but his outspoken spirit often incited heated debate among Catholics and Christians.
In St. Peter's Square, the epicenter for millions holding vigils for the dying Pope, Catholics of divergent beliefs about the Church came together. The vigils, beginning with an illness that struck the Pope almost two months ago, were a symbol that the Church and its faithful - most recently in the news for sexual abuse scandals - was still strong in their faith. Their devotion showed that the Catholic faith is still strong, even if many Catholics don't adhere to all of John Paul II's wishes.
Birth control, same-sex marriage and abortion are touchy subjects for liberals of the faith. "Cafeteria Catholics," a term stamped on those who pick and choose which Church guidelines to follow, is often applied to those in disagreement with the Pope's strict adherence to ancient faith.
In his last visit to the United States, a stop in St. Louis in 1999, John Paul II spoke to over 110,000 people in the Edward Jones Dome at America's Center in downtown St. Louis, went on parade in his "Pope-mobile," and managed to save a man who was scheduled to be executed that day in Potosi.