Biography Of Pope John Paul II

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Pope John Paul II reigned from October 6, 1978 to April 2, 2005, changing the role of the pope and the world in many ways. During his reign, which was the second longest papacy ever, Pope John Paul II played a critical role in the collapse of communism in Europe (cnn.com,Gilgoff). After Pope John Paul II was elected he returned to his homeland of Poland which was under communist rule. He sought to end communism while in Poland. He told the Polish people “don’t give up” repeatedly, starting a revolution in Poland eventually leading to their freedom in 1989. Pope John Paul II also spread Catholicism by appealing to a younger generation. He reached out to thousands of youth by traveling around the world for tours. By reaching out to the youth of the world Pope John Paul II gave Catholicism a brighter future (worldyouthday.com). Finally Pope John Paul II made the pope more of a celebrity figure during his reign. He gained celebrity status by frequently addressing the public. He also often spoke out on different political or social situations making him more popular with the public. John Paul II was very influential not only within the church but the whole world. He influenced the end of communism in Europe, grew Catholicism by reaching out to the youth, and made the pope a celebrity figure.
Pope John Paul II was born with the name Karol Wojtyla on May 18, 1920 in Wadowice, Poland. His love for religion came from his father who was a devout Catholic. In 1946 he was ordained then later in 1958 became the bishop of Ombi. Then in 1964 he became the archbishop of Krakow which was one of the oldest cities in his homeland Poland. After Pope John Paul I’s short rule of the church Karol Wojtyla was selected as pope in 1978. He was the firs...

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Pope John Paul II left a long lasting impact on the world. He played a key role in freeing Eastern Europe from communism, strengthened the Catholic Church by reaching out to youths, and making the pope a celebrity figure. He freed Europe from communism by inspiring a revolution in Poland. When other countries saw Poland freed they followed suit and fought for their freedom. By reaching out to the youth through World Youth Day he spread Catholicism and created a strong base for the future of Catholicism. Finally by making the pope a celebrity figure he gave the Catholic religion great exposure and helped it gain world exposure. Without Pope John Paul II the world might be very different place. Europe could still have communist nations, there could be a lack of interest in the Catholic religion, and many people would be less aware of Catholicism.

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