[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 42 (Tuesday, April 12, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING HIS HOLINESS, POPE JOHN PAUL II

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2005

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of His 
Holiness, Pope John Paul II. With his passing on April 2nd, the world 
lost one of the most influential and inspirational leaders of our time. 
He was a great leader, a man of peace, and a source of hope to millions 
across the globe.
  Pope John Paul II was born Karol Josef Wojtyla in Wadowice, Poland on 
May 18, 1920. He made history by becoming the first Slavic Pope and the 
first non-Italian Pope in more than 400 years. He traveled more than 
any other Pope in history, visiting over 130 countries and 900 Heads of 
State.
  The Pope's strong will and vision were instrumental in delivering 
hope and inspiration to people around the world. As a young man in an 
oppressed country, he courageously protected all people from oppression 
and tyranny. Under his reign, Pope John Paul II served as an important 
symbol that helped bring about the fall of communism throughout Europe.
  Particularly important for Poland, he was an outspoken advocate for 
human rights. His peaceful message of human rights and religious 
freedom resonated among Polish Catholics, ushering in Poland's peaceful 
revolution in their fight against communist rule.
  Pope John Paul II ministered to all people through his personal 
example of sacrifice and collaboration. He worked tirelessly to spread 
the message of compassion, courage, and sacrifice that inspired 
millions. Pope John Paul II brought together and forged dialogue 
between people of different faiths, promoting cooperation and peace. He 
was the first Pope to visit synagogues and mosques as well as areas of 
conflict, including the Holy Land.
  When the world most needed his eloquent voice, he inspired us. When 
the world needed his prayers, he prayed for us. When the world needed 
his guidance, he showed us the way. Mr. Speaker, he will forever be 
remembered as a tireless promoter of peace for all people and regions 
of the world.

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