wholly without shame

By Diogenes ( articles ) | May 23, 2005

You have to hand it to Rembert G. Weakland, quondam Archbishop of Milwaukee: he always exceeds expectations. I missed his Statement on the Death of his Holiness when it was issued. Even had it come from the pen of St. John Fisher it would be insufferably condescending. Given its real authorship ... words fail me.

Undoubtedly Pope John Paul II will go down in history as one of the most significant figures of our day. His long pontificate demonstrated an interest in the whole world and coincided with so many movements in society that were dear to him and about which he had much to say. He certainly forced the Catholic Church into becoming a global institution through his world vision and many trips. He also will be remembered for his position of support for the forces that ultimately led to the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe. His texts on social justice will be quoted for many generations. He has left his mark on both Church and World and has assured himself of a position in world history.