We've written before about Saint John Paul II’s missionary
spirit. During his pontificate, he embarked on 104 apostolic journeys to 129 different countries.
His trip to
Anchorage, Alaska is evidence of this commitment to “visit his people.” After his 1981 pilgrimage to Asia, the late Holy Father chose to
refuel in the polar state. He said Mass there, and 50,000 Alaskans came out for
the service.
As Archbishop Francis T. Hurley welcomed John Paul II, he said:
“No future Pope will travel farther from the Eternal City unless he chooses a
space ship to the moon—a challenge which many feel would be tempting to Your
Holiness” (George Weigel, Witness to Hope).
Saint John Paul II, please pray for us, that we may be like you in
tirelessly serving as missionaries for the Church.
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