“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…”

Psalm 33:12 (New International Version)

Korazim, Mount of the Beatitudes, Friday, 24 March 2000

Entering a new day, a new year, and a new century, the 21st century, the Third Millennium offers a chance to share the enduring wisdom of the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes, inspiring messages of truth, goodness, grace, and freedom.

Wisdom is timeless

1. For generations, the Sermon on the Mount has inspired young hearts with Christ’s personality and message.

2. The first to hear the Beatitudes carried the memory of Mount Sinai, where God spoke to Moses and gave the Law, - The Ten Commandments – “written with the finger of God” (Exodus 31:18).

Together, Sinai and the Mount of the Beatitudes offer the roadmap of Christian life: guide us from evil to love: loving God fully and our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37, 39).

Jesus Honors Those the World Considers Weak.

3. Jesus says, “Blessed are you!” All who are poor in spirit, gentle, merciful, mourn, seek righteousness, are pure in heart, make peace, and are persecuted.

He assures losers that they’re the real winners, for “theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Spoken by the one who is “gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29), it calls for a profound metanoia—a change of heart.

Why Do You Need This Change of Heart – Metanoia?

An inner voice and external influences suggest that the proud, violent, pitiless, and cunning always win. You know better!

Choosing the Voice of Christ

4. Jesus calls you to choose between good and evil, life or death. Faith in Jesus means trusting his words, even when they seem strange, and rejecting evil, no matter its appeal.

Jesus does not merely speak the Beatitudes; he lives them.

Trust in Him: “My grace is enough for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Now it is Your Turn

5. Young people of the Holy Land and the world. Open your hearts!

...

“Lord Jesus Christ, in this sacred place you knew well, kindly listen to these young hearts. Enlighten their minds and transform them into joyful witnesses. Stay with them always, especially in tough times. Be their strength and guiding victory.

You made these young people Your friends.

Amen.”

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Jubilee Pilgrimage to the Holy Land (March 20–26, 2000)
Homily at the Mount of the Beatitudes
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²⁵ and He did not need anyone to testify concerning man [and human nature], for He Himself knew what was in man [in their hearts—in the very core of their being].

John 2: 25 (Amplified Bible)

Luanda (Angola) – 7 June 1992

Young people of Angola: dedicate your life to worthy and just causes!

Build a homeland that rests on authentic human and Christian values so that the world of tomorrow does not accuse you of having left it a land devoid of ideals and alienated by pseudo-values.

Build something that has value!

Be a united people, build a single nation in which everyone can consider themselves brothers.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Apostolic Journey to Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe
Address to Young People at the Pavilhão Principal da Cidadela

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"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth"

Genesis 1:1

The Vatican – 19 November 1997

The future of humanity is, first of all, God’s future, in the sense that he alone knows it, prepares it, and brings it about. Of course, he calls for and invites human co-operation, but he never ceases to be the transcendent “director” of history.

The journey to the Jubilee is a journey of hope.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
General Audience
Read the original Vatican text

The Vatican, 24 January 2001 | If we cast a glance at the world and its history, at first sight the banner of war, violence, oppression, injustice and moral decay seems to predominate. It seems, as in the vision of chapter 6 of Revelation, that horsemen are riding through the barren lands of the earth, bearing now the crown of victorious power, now the sword of violence, now the scales of poverty and famine, now death’s sharp sickle (Revelation 6: 1-8).

A continuous effort of conversion is needed to straighten humanity’s course, so that it may freely choose to follow “God’s art”, that is, his plan of peace and love, of truth and justice.

With faith the Holy Spirit also plants the seed of hope in the human heart. Against a horizon that is often marked by discouragement, pessimism, choices of death, inertia and superficiality, Christians must be open to the hope that springs from faith. “Master, Master, we are perishing!”, the disciples cry. And Christ asks them: “Where is your faith?” (Luke 8: 24-25). With faith in Christ and in the kingdom of God we are never lost, and the hope of tranquil calm reappears on the horizon.

A French poet wrote: “Hope is the anxious waiting of the good sower; it is the longing of those who are candidates for heaven. Hope is the infinity of love” (Charles Péguy, Le porche du mystère de la deuxième vertu).

At the start of this Audience we heard the Apostle John’s message to fathers and sons, to the elders and the young, that they should continue to struggle and hope together, in the certainty that evil and the devil can be overcome through the heavenly Father’s effective presence. To restore hope is a fundamental task of the Church.

I would like to suggest to you once again the appeal to trust which I addressed to the United Nations Organization in 1995:

“We must not be afraid of the future... We have within us the capacities for wisdom and virtue. With these gifts, and with the help of God’s grace, we can build in the next century and the next millennium a civilization worthy of the human person, a true culture of freedom. We can and must do so! And in doing so, we shall see that the tears of this century have prepared the ground for a new springtime of the human spirit”

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
General Audience
The Vatican — Wednesday, 24 January 2001

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²¹ That they may be one ...

John 17:21-23 (The Message Translation)

Munich, Germany – 19 November 1980

Yes, this is what is at stake:

To give the life and solidarity of Europe’s peoples and nations a new foundation, healing the wounds left by the terrible experiences of our century.

Christ’s love is stronger.

In this light, building a better future is not only possible; it is a solemn duty and one of the urgent tasks of our time.

That future is the one for which the Lord prayed: Father, I ask you that “They may all be one.” From this prayer come renewed life, responsibility, and longing for communion.

I desire to serve this unity and to follow every path that leads toward the flock of the one Good Shepherd.

As I depart, I sincerely bless all the people of Germany: those within your borders, your German brothers and sisters abroad, and those who carry your heritage worldwide.

Though much time has passed since the war-torn Europe, the call to build a world that values the human spirit remains strong. This longing becomes a personal duty, inspiring us to become more fully human and find our best selves.

I would be grateful if this wish finds a place in your hearts and community. As heirs of rich culture and history, I hope you become pioneers of a civilization of love—helping make the world a more beautiful and compassionate place for all.

May this symbolize the future’s response to past suffering. I offer hope to all of Europe, where your nation plays an important role: may love’s civilization become reality across the continent.

Such a civilization meets core human needs, especially the social desire for community. It encourages Europe to act as a true family of nations, where each nation—regardless of size—is respected for its history, identity, culture, and self-determination, and has a duty to defend others’ rights.

Europe’s future should be guided by the civilization of love, not power, dominance, or self-interest. This vision allows nations to express their identities and protects all from war and destruction.

Love nurtures freedom and respect, encouraging us to stand together with kindness. It seeks a world free from exploitation, oppression, and selfishness, where all can flourish with dignity.

May Almighty God bless Germany and its people! May God also bless Europe and the future she holds.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Address at the Departure from Germany
Munich, Germany — 19 November 1980

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¹⁴ "Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."

(Luke 2: 14 NIV)

The Vatican, December 1999 | It is encouraging that, despite obstacles, peace initiatives continue to emerge daily through the cooperation of many people. Peace is a continuous construction involving:

- Parents who serve as examples of peace and educate children for peace;

- Teachers who can convey authentic values and humanity’s cultural heritage;

- Working men and women dedicated to advancing their longstanding fight for the dignity of work into current global issues that demand justice and solidarity;

- Political leaders who prioritize a strong and resolute commitment to promoting peace and justice in their political efforts and national agendas;

- Those in International Organizations often work with limited resources on the front lines as “peace-makers,” risking their safety.

- Members of NGOs worldwide, working in various contexts, are committed to preventing and resolving conflicts through research and action.

- Believers who think true faith avoids war promote peace through ecumenical and interreligious dialogue.

I especially think of you, young people, blessed to experience life uniquely and responsible for not wasting it. In schools, universities, workplaces, leisure, and sports, let this be your guide: seek peace within, keep peace around you, and strive for peace at all times, with everyone, for the good of all.

To young people affected by war with feelings of hatred, I urge you to pursue reconciliation and forgiveness. Though difficult, it’s the only way to face the future with hope—for yourselves, your children, your countries, and humanity.

In his final public speech, Pope John XXIII called on ‘men of goodwill’ to pursue peace through ‘the Gospel of obedience to God, mercy, and forgiveness.’ He added:

“... without a doubt, the bright torch of peace will run its course, igniting the joy and pouring light and grace into the hearts of people throughout the world, helping them to discover beyond all frontiers the faces of brothers and sisters, the faces of friends.”

May you, young people of the Year 2000, recognize in others and assist them in seeing the faces of brothers and sisters, the faces of friends!

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Message for the Celebration of the World Day of Peace
The Vatican — 1 January 2000

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¹⁰ He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”

Psalm 46:10 (New International Version)

Adolfo López Mateos Hall of the Presidential Residence, Mexico City, Mexico – 23 January 1999 | America is a continent of diverse nations, from advanced to less developed. Even within countries like Mexico, social conditions vary. It’s vital to respect these differences and promote dialogue and cooperation.

America is a vast, diverse continent with a rich history, stretching from the North Pole to the South Pole. Its origins include civilizations such as the Maya, Olmec, Aztec, and Inca. Interactions with the Old World and Christianity helped shape a shared identity. America excels at fostering values that motivate and influence people, especially in key roles globally.

Imagine a future called the “Continent of Hope,” where communities and leaders share values. The Church and other religious groups in America can help build this moral foundation—by encouraging independent, ethical thinking beyond popular opinion. Clear principles like “Thou shalt not kill,” “Thou shalt not lie,” “Thou shalt not steal or envy,” and respecting everyone’s dignity are key. These sacred values, rooted in the Decalogue – the Ten Commandments – and cherished across faiths, promote universal care and shape societies.

These principles should serve as a compassionate shield, protecting every life stage from start to finish. This includes opposing aggressive wars, destructive weapons, and corruption that harms society beyond borders. It also involves resisting unlawful intrusion into privacy, such as forced sterilization or laws threatening free living. We must oppose deceptive advertising, challenge monopolies that hinder progress, and prevent drug abuse from harming youth.

Significant progress has been made, with international conventions working to curb abuses. Countries collaborate to establish zones where activities are regulated and protected by principles that promote fairness and safeguard the rights of individuals, communities, and cultures.

Much work remains ahead. As we near the end of a century and a millennium marked by remarkable scientific and technological progress, we are also reminded of the visible scars these advances often leave—sometimes painfully—showing where we’ve fallen short in upholding our core moral values. Instead of neglecting these principles again, we should focus on strengthening their ethical and moral authority to guide us toward a better future.

Sharing these thoughts, I am inspired to defend human dignity, guided by God’s divine Word.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Pastoral Visit to America
Address to the Diplomatic Corps Accredited to Mexico
Adolfo López Mateos Hall, Presidential Residence, Mexico City, Mexico — Saturday, 23 January 1999

⁵ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

Deuteronomy 6: 5

Sykhiv Square, Lviv, Ukraine – June 26, 2001 | Young Ukrainians, Christ calls you to go against the current! “Love your neighbor,” he urges. Be defenders of his law and demonstrate it through daily actions. This timeless law is perfectly embodied in the Gospel. Love fuels our lives, and true, free, and deep love encourages faithful adherence to the Ten Commandments. With this divine law firmly in your hearts, do not fear: you will find fulfillment and help create a world of greater solidarity and justice.

Dear young people, your country is transitioning from a long oppressive regime to a free, democratic society. Freedom requires responsible, mature consciences. Liberty is demanding and, in some respects, more costly than slavery!

I warmly welcome the young people from Russia. Thank you for being here! When you return home, pass my greetings to family and friends, and share the joy of meeting with your faith in Christ. Bring my blessings to all.

I urge you to choose the narrow path guided by the Lord’s commandments. The seemingly easy, wide road can be deceptive and wrong.

Without God’s guidance, achieving anything is hard. With His support, you’ll be ready for today’s challenges.

You will succeed in making tough, value-driven decisions, like choosing to stay in your country rather than chasing an easy life abroad.

Young people, your presence is needed to improve your country’s social, cultural, economic, and political landscape.

The talents you possess are essential for the future of your land, which boasts a glorious history.

Ukraine’s future depends on your actions and responsibility. Serving family and society, prioritizing the common good over personal gains, will be blessed by God. Ukraine needs men and women committed to serving humanity and protecting the vulnerable. This reflects Gospel principles and strengthens civil society. True civilization goes beyond economic progress; it involves moral, human, and spiritual growth.

“You shall love the Lord your God.” We are called to prioritize God in our lives, loving Him with all our hearts, souls, and strength (Deuteronomy 6: 5). As the one true God, He cannot be replaced by false idols. He also declares to you, young people, “I am the Lord your God.”

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Meeting with Young People
Address of the Holy Father
Lviv (Sykhiv Square), Ukraine — Tuesday, 26 June 2001

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³¹ God saw all he had made, and it was very good…

Genesis 1: 31

Wellington, New Zealand 23 November 1986 | Peace and love are born from a new heart, a heart made new by God’s gift of reconciliation. A new heart is the foundation of peace in the world. All truly human actions proceed from the heart, the innermost center of the human person, the dwelling-place of our conscience and most profound convictions. This is why peace of heart is the heart of peace – peace inside families, within villages, towns, and cities, peace between nations, and in International life. Peace anywhere in the world is possible only if there is, first of all, peace of heart.

But this inner peace is continually threatened in our modern world. It is disturbed by human passions: hatred, envy, lust for power, pride, prejudice, and an uncontrolled desire for wealth. Violence and war come from our blindness of spirit and the disorder in our hearts. These lead to injustice, which in turn causes tension and conflict. In addition, people’s consciences are often confused today by an ideological manipulation of information.

It takes great courage to open ourselves to the conversion of heart and to maintain this conversion in humility and freedom. The obstacles to peace are many.

They are grave; they present serious threats.

But since they depend on the spirit, the will, and the human ‘heart,’ with the help of God, people can overcome them.

They must refuse to give in to fatalism and discouragement.

Positive signs are already piercing the darkness”.

And let us never forget that the final triumph over darkness has already been won by Jesus Christ, the Light of the world.

Our hope for the victory of peace is rooted in our faith in God, the Creator of heaven and earth. From the very beginning, God’s goodness and providence are revealed in the act of creation itself: God saw all he had made and was very good.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Apostolic Pilgrimage to Bangladesh, Singapore, Fiji Islands, New Zealand, Australia, and Seychelles
Homily at Athletic Park
Wellington, New Zealand — 23 November 1986

Read the original Vatican text

“So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift”

(Matthew 5:23-24).

Drogheda, Ireland, 29 September 1979 | This command of Jesus is more robust than any wall of human inadequacy or malice.

There is another word that must be part of every Christian’s vocabulary, especially when grappling with barriers of hate and mistrust. That word is reconciliation.

Even when our belief in the fundamental goodness of every human being has been shaken or undermined, and even if long-held convictions and attitudes have hardened our hearts, there remains one source of power stronger than any disappointment, bitterness, or ingrained mistrust. That power is Jesus Christ, who brought forgiveness and reconciliation to the world.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Apostolic Journey to Ireland
Holy Mass at Drogheda
Drogheda, Ireland — Saturday, 29 September 1979
Read the original Vatican text

¹² So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Matthew 7:12 (New International Version)

The Vatican – 9 December 1999 | Peace and justice go hand in hand, and forgiveness is essential to that journey. I hope to share this message with everyone—whether you’re a believer or not—because it matters to everyone who genuinely cares about humanity’s well-being and future.

We keep in our prayers even those who have seriously wronged God and humanity through such hurtful actions. We hope they will acknowledge their mistakes and reflect on the consequences of their actions, guiding them to release violent thoughts and seek forgiveness.

In these challenging times, let’s wish for humanity to find genuine and lasting peace that can only blossom from the harmony of justice and mercy.

“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Message for the Celebration of the World Day of Peace
1 January 2000
Read the original Vatican text

¹¹ You make known to me the path of life;
You will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Psalm 16:11 (New International Version)

Denver, CO – 15 August 1993 | Dear Friends, this gathering in Denver, centered on the theme of Life, invites everyone to reflect on the important moral questions facing society today. It encourages discussions on topics like human dignity and moral law, as well as the impact of neglect on our communities. The event closes with an open invitation for personal stories and ways to take positive action.

Foundations of Human Dignity

The Founding Fathers enshrined in the Constitution inalienable rights, echoing principles in many countries and international declarations, acknowledging a “law’—rights and duties—imprinted by the Creator on every person’s heart and conscience.

The Cultural Crisis

Many modern thinkers no longer rely on a “law” from the Creator, instead choosing goals for convenience or usefulness. Nothing is viewed as inherently “good” or universally true. Rights are acknowledged, but without objective truth, they seem uncertain or unanchored. This shift has led to confusion about right and wrong, making society more susceptible to influence and opinion-shaping.

Consequences for Family and Society

The family faces many challenges, often overlooking the importance of human life. The most vulnerable—unborn, children, sick, disabled, elderly, impoverished, unemployed, immigrants, refugees, and those in the Global South—are at greatest risk.

A Call to Action

Young pilgrims, Christ invites you to shine and reveal the “path to life” (Psalm 16:11). Your mission is to turn the Church’s affirmation of Life into meaningful actions. Though the journey may be long, your efforts matter. Use your talents, enthusiasm, compassion, and strength to serve life wholeheartedly.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
8th World Youth Day
Eucharistic Celebration at Cherry Creek State Park
Denver, Colorado — Sunday, 15 August 1993

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“Where hatred and the thirst for revenge dominate, where war brings suffering and death to the innocent, the grace of mercy are needed to settle human minds and hearts and bring about peace.”

Homily at the Shrine of Divine Mercy at Krakow-Lagiewniki, 17 August 2002, No.5

The Vatican, 24 January 2003 | During the Cold War’s darkest days, Blessed Pope John XXIII’s Encyclical Pacem in Terris served as a guiding light for those of goodwill.

It emphasized that genuine peace relies on diligently following divine order, with truth, justice, charity, and freedom as key pillars of peace.

Furthermore, media’s influence has grown, affecting interactions and shaping political and social realms for better or worse.

Media and Truth. Communication must respect and serve the truth. Mass media have an unavoidable responsibility as the modern space for sharing ideas and fostering understanding and solidarity.

The media can sometimes propagate propaganda and disinformation for interests such as bias, greed, and false ideologies. Humanity must oppose this misconception.

Media and Justice. The media must avoid fostering division, such as promoting class conflict, nationalism, racial supremacy, or ethnic cleansing.

By accurately reporting events, clarifying issues, and fairly representing perspectives, the media play a crucial role in promoting justice and unity. Addressing the causes of grievances and divisions fosters understanding and healing.

Media and Freedom. Freedom is essential for peace. The media support freedom by providing truth. When people have free access to accurate information, they can work for the common good and hold authorities accountable.

Their privileged position demands that the media go beyond commercial interests. Journalists and commentators must uphold moral principles and resist pressures to distort the truth for wealth or political gain.

We must find ways to give weaker societal sectors access to information and prevent their exclusion from active media decision-making.

Media and Love. “The preservation of peace must rely on a different principle than the current one. Genuine peace should depend not on equal weapons but on mutual trust“ (Pacem in Terris, 113).

Media outlets play a vital role in fostering trust. Journalists promote global peace by dismantling mistrust, encouraging understanding, and uniting people and nations through respect, reconciliation, and compassion.

“Where hatred and the thirst for revenge dominate, where war brings suffering and death to the innocent, there the grace of mercy is needed to settle human minds and hearts and to bring about peace” (Homily at the Shrine of Divine Mercy at Krakow-Lagiewniki, 17 August 2002, No.5).

The media serve as agents of truth, justice, and freedom—”founded on truth, built upon justice, nurtured and animated by charity, and brought into effect under the auspices of freedom“ (Pacem in Terris, 167).

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Message for the 37th World Communications Day
“The Communications Media at the Service of Authentic Peace in the Light of Pacem in Terris”
The Vatican — 24 January 2003
Feast of Saint Francis de Sales
Read the original Vatican text

¹⁷ The Lord your God is with you;
his power gives you victory.
The Lord will take delight in you,
and in his love he will give you new life.^[a]
He will sing and be joyful over you,

Zephaniah 3:17 (Good News Translation)

Saint Peter’s Basilica, The Vatican – 30 November 1980 | In modern society, there’s a rising resistance to the idea of a merciful God. Mercy is becoming less present in everyday life and in people’s hearts. The unease with the word “mercy” is clear, especially as humanity, empowered by scientific and technological progress, has gained control over the earth and dominates it. ¹⁴

This dominance over the earth is often expressed in a limited, superficial way, leaving little room for mercy. We live in a world full of contrasts: powerful yet vulnerable, capable of both noble and base actions, open to freedom and slavery, progress and decline, brotherhood and hatred. Humanity is increasingly aware that the forces it has unleashed are within its control, and it must either master them or be enslaved by them.

The Challenges and Hopes of Our Age

The current global situation shows both hopeful changes for a better future and numerous threats that surpass those of the past. Although the Church often emphasizes these dangers in forums like the UN, UNESCO, and FAO, it also needs to analyze them from the perspective of divine truth.

God as the “Father of Mercies”

The truth revealed in Christ about God—the “Father of mercies”—provides a perspective that highlights His closeness to humanity, especially in times of suffering or when human dignity is at risk. ¹⁶

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
Dives in Misericordia
Blessing
Pope John Paul II
Read the original Vatican text

New Heavens and a New Earth

¹⁷ “See, I will create
New heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered,
Nor will they come to mind.
¹⁸ But be glad and rejoice forever
In what I will create,
For I will create Jerusalem to be a delight
and its people a joy.”

Isaiah 65:17-18 (New International Version)

The Vatican – 19 November 1997 | God has control over time, not just as the creator of the world. He intervened to heal and renew humanity. He spent a great deal of time preparing his people for the glory of the new creation, primarily through the words of the prophets (Isaiah 65:17-18).

…

The years to come are also in God’s hands. A person’s future, above all, is God’s future, because only He knows it, prepares it, and brings it to pass. Of course, He calls for and invites people to work with Him, but He remains the ultimate guide of history.

Only God knows what the future holds. However, we’re sure that it will be a future filled with grace, where a divine plan of love is fulfilled for all of humanity and each of us. That’s why, as we look to the future, we’re filled with hope and not overcome by fear.

The journey to the Jubilee is a journey of hope.

Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
General Audience
The Vatican — Wednesday, 19 November 1997
Read the original Vatican text

¹⁴ if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

- 2 Chronicles 7:14 (New International Version)

The Vatican, 8 December 1984 | My message to young men and women is: don’t be afraid!

Embrace your youth and desires for happiness, truth, beauty, and love. Society might fear these passions, and you may fear them too. But don’t be scared! Your energy fills me with gratitude and hope. The future depends on you, and peace begins in your hearts. To shape history, help steer it from wrong turns. Trust in humanity and the noble purpose of life—a purpose rooted in truth, dignity, and rights.

I notice your growing awareness of responsibilities and sensitivity to others’ needs, inspired by hope for peace. You are troubled by injustices, weapon stockpiles, nuclear threats, hunger, environmental concerns, unemployment, and oppression, which can make life seem overwhelming.

In this situation, it’s understandable some might try to escape responsibility through alcohol, drugs, fleeting sexual relationships, indifference, cynicism, or violence. Be mindful of a world that could exploit your search for happiness and purpose. Remember, you’re not alone — seek authentic answers to your questions. Stay courageous and hopeful!

The inevitable question: What is your idea of humanity?

Reflect on what it means to be human—consider the qualities that epitomize dignity and greatness. This is a good chance for young people, along with older generations—parents and resource managers—to reflect deeply. Honest questions allow everyone to evaluate actions and histories openly. Wealthier countries often see life through materialistic lenses, with some parents believing they’ve fulfilled their duty by giving children more than basic needs. This can lead to a world lacking spiritual values, peace, and justice. In some nations, certain ideologies enslave young generations, denying them the freedom to seek meaningful principles. Think about the person you want to become and the culture you want to nurture. Don’t avoid these questions—face them openly, even if they challenge your beliefs.

The fundamental question: Who is your God?

Excerpted from:

Message of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, for the Celebration of the World Day Of Peace, 1 January 1985, Peace And Youth Go Forward Together

Read full chapter 2 Chronicles 7:14 in all English translations

The Vatican, 21 June 1980 | Address to Mr. Jimmy Carter, President of the United States

Mr President,

I’m pleased to welcome you today and thank you for the warm hospitality in Washington. I cherish my memories of the White House and interactions with Americans, remembering them fondly and praying for America.

Significance of the Presidential Visit

Your presence at the Vatican as President of the United States is appreciated. I see your visit as a reflection of your country’s respect for ethical and religious principles—a respect shared by many Americans of various faiths.

During my October visit, I observed how spiritual values are embedded in citizens’ lives. They form the moral backbone of your nation, reinforcing the civil State that upholds its heritage as “one nation under God,” based on strong moral principles.

Ethical and Religious Values in Public Life

True ethical values improve all human activities. In my pastoral work, I admire those who uphold these values nationally. Embracing religious values enhances all aspects of life. Moral principles strengthen political, social, and economic sectors and should be part of every nation’s traditions.

The principles guiding a nation should also shape its international relations. I acknowledge those worldwide, in their countries, who show compassion, justice, care, and solidarity. These actions promote freedom, equality, and peace for a world seeking truth, unity, and love.

The Centrality of Human Dignity

All spiritual principles uphold the dignity of every human, deserving respect from birth. Each has rights and a duty to support others in need.

The Church promotes human dignity, shares the Gospel worldwide, and affirms each person is made in God’s image for eternal life. While not political, as noted by the Second Vatican Council, it collaborates with governments to serve humanity. It also addresses socio-economic issues, stating that each person is “the source, center, and purpose of all socio-economic life.”

The Church advocates for human dignity and collaborates with the State to promote it. Through ethical training, it helps create responsible citizens who work with others, supporting its partnership with the political community.

Commitment to Peace and International Concerns

Mr. President, I support efforts to improve humanity and promote peace. The Middle East and nearby areas deserve our focus for stability. I pray reconciliation efforts succeed.

The Jerusalem issue, which attracts global attention, is vital to peace. The city symbolizes the hopes of many. I trust the monotheistic faith can foster harmony among believers. I urge fair attention to the concerns of Lebanon and Palestine.

Global Responsibilities and Development

During my trip to Africa, I saw its importance and potential to improve global well-being. Achieving this depends on support and cooperation from other countries, which are vital for Africa’s stability, sovereignty, and independence.

Justice and Human Dignity

Justice efforts defend human dignity, which is undermined by violation but upheld by support. Reforms in political, social, and economic systems foster positive outcomes.

I recognize the U.S. focus on Central America, especially now. Persistent effort is essential until all in the area—and beyond—are guaranteed dignity and freedom from influence, overt or covert. I trust the U.S. will continue supporting initiatives to help those in need.

Reflections and Encouragement

My recollections of Americans highlight their enthusiasm, generosity, and focus on the common good over materialism, both locally and globally. For Christians, their dedication to sharing Christ’s justice and peace is notable. The Holy See promotes these qualities for humanity’s benefit.

Mr. President, I acknowledge past achievements, highlight current global challenges, and express hope and confidence to the American people.

May God support and bless the nation you lead.

Excerpted from:

ADDRESS OF JOHN PAUL II TO MR JIMMY CARTER, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, The Vatican, Monday, 21 June 1980

Paris, France – 2 June 1980 | The primary and most crucial function of culture, including every individual culture, is the upbringing of its members. It takes a Village ...

This process also embodies the concept that humans grow more human — that they can ‘be’ more rather than merely ‘have.’

It fosters a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be fully human, both in relation to others and in service to them.

Fundamentally, the Village plays a vital role in shaping interpersonal and social relationships.

Extracted from:

VOYAGE APOSTOLIQUE À PARIS ET LISIEUX
(30 MAI - 2 JUIN 1980)

DISCOURS DU PAPE JEAN-PAUL II À L’ORGANISATION DES NATIONS UNIES POUR L’ÉDUCATION, LA SCIENCE ET LA CULTURE (UNESCO), Paris (France, Lundi, 2 juin 1980

Kavelaer, Germany, 2 May 1987 | To reach peace in our world craved by all humanity requires more than political conferences, treaties, or détente policies, essential as they may be.

Above all, our troubled world needs the peace of Christ when people are willing to free themselves from sin. The most profound cause of all discord in the world is turning away from God. Those who do not live in peace with God can hardly live in harmony with their fellow human beings.

Our hope for the future of humanity demands prayer for peace. Here our human powerlessness connects with the omnipotence of God. Here our human wretchedness comes to the aid of God’s mercy. (Ephesians 2: 17).

We are called peacemakers: overcoming injustice, renouncing the use of violence, and willingness to understand and forgive one another. In this way, everyone can make a decisive and very personal contribution to peace among people. Stand up for international understanding, for the gradual elimination of all weapons of mass destruction, and joint efforts by all peoples for peace and justice in the world.

Today we bring the request for peace among the peoples and a secure and humane future before God (Romans 15: 33).

Excerpted from (translated from German):

Apostolische Reise In Die Bundesrepublik Deutschland, LOBPREIS PREDIGT VON JOHANNES PAUL II. «Hülsparkstadion» In Kevelaer - Samstag, 2. Mai 1987

In a world filled with constant noise, we often forget to pause.

There is always something to read, something to respond to, something to move toward.

And yet, it is often in stillness that we begin to see more clearly.

The words and life of Saint Pope John Paul II continue to offer something rare—

not urgency, but depth; not noise, but meaning.

They invite us to reflect more deeply on faith, on human dignity, and on the way we see one another.

The Evangelical Pope is a small space created for that purpose.

Not to inform quickly, but to remain with you.

Not to add more voices, but to help you listen more closely.

Each message is written with care—

meant to be read slowly,

and perhaps returned to.

If you are visiting for the first time, you may begin with one of the reflections below.

And if, in time, these messages resonate with you,
you are welcome to receive them in your inbox.

Receive these reflections

There is no urgency here.

Only an invitation—

to pause,
to reflect,
and to see more clearly.