Kaptur Statement on the Passing of Pope John Paul II

KAPTUR STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF POPE JOHN PAUL II
Apr 2, 2005

TOLEDO, OHIO-Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-9) released the following statement today on the passing of Pope John Paul II. Kaptur is one of 129 Roman Catholics in the U.S. House.

"Always a voice for peace, Pope John Paul II was an inspiration to people around the world. With a deep sense of gratitude and sorrow, the entire world mourns the loss of the life of this holy man of peace and reconciliation. He will be remembered throughout all corners of our world, and in all times, for his life of sacrifice and witness of love to the poor, to the oppressed, to the forgotten.

"As the first Polish pope, his papacy and his life's work centered on developing an alternative to Nazi and Communist political ideologies that tormented his native Poland. Poland's solidarity movement, and the liberty that was made possible, would not have been achieved without his inspiration. He created a place for people to maintain hope and imagine a life of freedom, dignity and worth.

"His broad travels as a shepherd-humble in his white cape, not the traditional trappings of the papacy-endeared him to his followers and the world. He will be remembered as the Pope who traveled the world, visiting almost 130 countries during his tenure. The Pope truly internationalized the church, appointing cardinals from Asia as well as Africa.

"In the words of the New Testament, 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.' We grieve the passing of this man of peace, but his legacy will be everlasting. May he rest in peace as his life gives inspiration to those that will follow."

http://www.kaptur.house.gov/PressRelease.aspx?NewsID=1367