[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 40 (Friday, April 8, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E597]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF HIS HOLINESS POPE JOHN PAUL II 
              AND EXPRESSING PROFOUND SORROW ON HIS DEATH

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                               speech of

                          HON. JAMES T. WALSH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 6, 2005

  Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of a great 
spiritual and moral leader for the world. Throughout his lifetime, he 
experienced Fascism, Communism and rampant materialism. He never lost 
sight of his own values and beliefs and lived his life as an example 
that all of us regardless of faith could look to.
  The earthly light of this Pope has been lost but his eternal light 
will shine forever. The millions of pilgrims flowing into St. Peter's 
Square reflect the genuine warmth and respect this man of God had 
throughout the world. He spoke for the poor, the homeless, the 
infirmed, the oppressed and everyone listened. His message of caring 
and love certainly played a major role in many of the changes we have 
seen across the global map. Walls came down and individual freedom 
arose from rubble.
  To me it was especially noteworthy to watch the Pope reach out to the 
youth of the world and how warmly they returned his affection. Their 
bond will long be remembered.
  In life Pope John Paul II showed us how to live and in death, showed 
how to die. He has returned to his Lord and Savior having earned the 
reward of ``Welcome home my good and faithful servant.'' We have been 
blessed by his presence on earth and his legacy will be a strength for 
generations to come.

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