“Pope John Paul was one of the greatest spiritual leaders of our time. He was a man of God, and a man of the people - a man who gave profound advice without passing judgement.  

“During his papacy, the Pope reached beyond the boundaries of what was expected of him.  He helped feed the hungry. He cared for the sick and the dying. He promoted justice and supported economic development throughout the world. He promoted democracy, reminding people around the world that living in a land of freedom and unity was much better than living in a land of violence and oppression.” 

“The Pope had an especially profound influence on putting an end to the Cold War, and promoted throughout the world that one's right to choose his or her religion was perhaps one of the greatest freedoms one can ever possess. 

“When the Pope spoke, people listened. We will all miss him dearly, but are comforted to know that his influence on the world will be felt by generations to come.”