Here everything started From Kalwaria Zebrzydowska it is only a stone’s throw away to the town which JP2 described as “here everything started”. Karol Wojtyla (the future pope) was born here in 1920 and lived in the town until 1938 when his father decided to move to Cracow. At that time it was only a small country town. In the case of JP2 his life was centered around the town square. The parish church is the main feature of the square. The home where the Pope was born and grew up is just next to the church across a narrow street (the yellow building on the right). His primary school was located in the building which is a few meters away from the church too (the building on the left with the red roof). I guess that the pilgrims coming from the visit to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska with its Paths are most grateful for this easy visit to the home town of the Holy Father. One doesn’t need to walk much to see the places associated with the Pope. I found it a very moving experience to pray at the baptismal font where the Holy Father was baptized. This fundamental sacrament that all Christians receive at the outset of their faith journey marked his life powerfully. Grace of God given him that day wasn’t wasted because he cooperated with it faithfully. As I was praying before the baptismal font I was struck by the thought the potential we are given when the Holy Spirit descends upon us at Baptism. If we let the Holy Spirit accomplish his mission we can set off from this life with confidence of JP2 who saw his dying as going to the Father. I also liked a little chapel in the church with the image of our Lady of Perpetual Succor which is known as the prayer place for the students of Wadowice. The kids come here before their classes and after school. As I was praying in the chapel I thought about the young man with his school bag who was coming here and under the caring eyes of Mary assimilated what he learnt in such way that not only his mind was developing but his personality and soul as well. I couldn't help asking Mary to look after the young people, particularly those I know.
I was leaving Wadowice thinking that shortcuts aren't necessary in life in order to become a saint. JP2 went through ordinary stages of life like we all do but the message he shares with us is to use all the stages of our life with faith and trust in Jesus. He was Pope but in the first place he was a Catholic following Jesus.
Blessed John Paul II pray for us from the Home of Our Father in heaven.
I was leaving Wadowice thinking that shortcuts aren't necessary in life in order to become a saint. JP2 went through ordinary stages of life like we all do but the message he shares with us is to use all the stages of our life with faith and trust in Jesus. He was Pope but in the first place he was a Catholic following Jesus.
Blessed John Paul II pray for us from the Home of Our Father in heaven.
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