John Paul II: A Man of Peace

John Paul II pictured on one of his many visits to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City

Leading by example, even at the worse moments in human history, Pope John Paul II witnessed to peace, forgiveness, and unity. Here are a few of his words to the new ambassador of the United States of America to the Holy See, which were offered following the terrorist tragedies of September 11, 2001.

At this time of national mourning for the victims of the terrorist attacks on Washington and New Yor, I wish to assure you personally of my profound participation in the grief of the American people and of my prayers for the President and the civil authorities, for all involved in the rescue operations and in helping the survivors, and in a special way for the victims and their families. I pray that this inhuman act will awaken in the hearts of all the world's people a firm resolved to reject the ways of violence, to combat everything that sows hatred and division within the human family, and to work for the dawn of a new era of international cooperation inspired by the highest ideals of solidarity, justice and peace.

He, who himself had been shot at in an assassination attempt, invites us to understand more deeply our need to be people of peace, our role in cultivating a world of peace. May he intercede for us in our daily attempts, both big and small, to live peaceably and peacefully.