October 16, 2024, marked the 46th anniversary of the election of Cardinal Karol Wojtyła to the Papal See. On that day in 1978, at 6:18 p.m., white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. For the first time in 455 years, a bishop from beyond Italy—a Pole—was chosen, taking the name John Paul II. His papacy lasted nearly 27 years and forever change the Church. He passed away on April 2, 2005, on the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday. His beatification took place on May 1, 2011, followed by his canonization on April 27, 2014.
On the anniversary, at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Foundation House in Lublin, scholarship recipients gathered for a Mass and rosary service, giving thanks to God for the life of St. John Paul II. His teachings, filled with love and concern for others, remain as relevant today as ever, reminding us of the need to build a world grounded in Christian values. As we remember tha extraordinary, historic October day in 1978, it is worth recalling his words, which continue to
inspire millions worldwide. At the conclusion of the rosary service, participants venerated the relics of St. John Paul II while singing his favorite hymn, “Barka.”
Daria Koval
