Pope John Paul II (born Karol Józef Wojtyła, May 18, 1920 – April 2, 2005) was the 264th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, serving from October 16, 1978, until his death in 2005. He was the first non-Italian pope in 455 years and one of the most influential global leaders of the 20th century.
Early Life and Background
- Born: Wadowice, Poland
- Parents: Karol Wojtyła and Emilia Kaczorowska
- Education: Studied literature and drama at Jagiellonian University before entering clandestine seminary studies during World War II under Nazi occupation.
Karol lost his entire immediate family by the age of 21, a loss that deeply shaped his spiritual and emotional resilience.
Priesthood and Rise in the Church
- Ordained a priest: 1946
- Bishop: 1958
- Archbishop of Kraków: 1964
- Cardinal: 1967
As a church leader in Communist Poland, he became a strong advocate for human rights, religious freedom, and social justice.
Writings and Teachings
Pope John Paul II was a prolific writer and thinker. Notable works include:
- Theology of the Body – a series of teachings on sexuality, marriage, and human dignity.
- Redemptor Hominis (The Redeemer of Man) – his first encyclical.
- Fides et Ratio (Faith and Reason) – exploring the harmony between belief and intellect.
- Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) – on the sanctity of human life.
He also published poetry, plays, and philosophical works, even before becoming pope.