Polish birthplace of John Paul II prepares to celebrate beatification

April 20, 2011

Wadowice, the Polish town where Karol Wojtyla was born, is preparing for a hearty celebration on May 1, when Pope John Paul II is beatified.

The streets of Wadowice are already being decorated, and shopkeepers are stocking up on papal memorabilia in anticipation of increased tourism. On a more serious note, residents organized a prayer vigil in the town's square on April 2, the anniversary of the Pope's death.

The town houses a small museum dedicated to the life of the late Pontiff, which has drawn about 500,000 visitors a year.

 

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Further information:

• Papal beatification stirs pride, hope in Polish Church (Reuters)