Cardinal Dziwisz Celebrates 45 Years of Foundation's Work
Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, the longtime personal secretary of Pope John Paul II, celebrated Mass in Rome for the 45th anniversary of the John Paul II Vatican Foundation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the mem…
Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, the longtime personal secretary of Pope John Paul II, celebrated Mass in Rome for the 45th anniversary of the John Paul II Vatican Foundation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the memory of its founder while aiding future generations.
During the opening Mass, Cardinal Dziwisz recalled the words of the Polish Pope, stating, “Those who invest in people and in their integral development never lose.” He highlighted that the foundation was conceived at the request of Pope John Paul II and has achieved significant success in helping numerous individuals develop their talents and shape their futures.
The Mass took place at the Church of Santa Maria del Carmelo in Traspontina, located near St. Peter’s Square, and marked the commencement of celebrations for the Vatican Foundation. In his homily, the Cardinal reflected on how, in 2001, during the foundation’s 20th anniversary, Pope John Paul II discussed a special monument that is quietly constructed in people’s hearts and minds. “There is no greater and more enduring monument for our times than one built with the bronze of science and culture,” Cardinal Dziwisz stated.
Among the foundation's notable initiatives is a scholarship program that allows young people from Central and Eastern Europe, as well as other regions, to study at the Catholic University of Lublin. The Cardinal noted that over the decades, hundreds have benefited from this opportunity. He remarked, “It is in their lives that St. John Paul II's vision is most fully realized. The Foundation not only preserves the memory of its founder but also helps future generations develop their talents and obtain an education.”
Cardinal Dziwisz also referenced the John Paul II Polish House in Rome, which welcomes pilgrims and houses the John Paul II Pontificate Documentation and Study Center. This facility compiles and provides access to materials related to the Pope’s pontificate, thereby supporting academic research and dialogue between the Church and the cultural world. He acknowledged the Polish diaspora's generosity as instrumental in the development of these initiatives.
At the conclusion of his homily, Cardinal Dziwisz asked attendees to pray for Pope Leo XIV, who had recently been discharged from the Gemelli Hospital following surgery and was now recovering at the Vatican. “Let us surround the Holy Father Leo XIV, who is so dear to us, with our prayers. Let us pray for God’s blessing and the grace of good health for him, so that he may guide the Church for many years to come,” he stated, entrusting everything to the intercession of Saint John Paul II.
