Remember Pope John Paul II’s deep connection to the Philippines? Before he was pope, Cardinal Karol Wojtyla visited in 1973. It was a brief stop. He was on his way to Australia. He celebrated Mass with thousands at the Baclaran Shrine. Even though it was late, the crowd’s devotion impressed him.
Later, as Pope John Paul II, his first stop in the Philippines was the Baclaran Shrine. This visit shows the special bond he felt with the Filipino people. It shows his admiration for their faith.
Imagine the scene on February 17, 1981. The great day had come. Nuns arrived the night before. They wanted good spots in the church. Over four thousand nuns packed the church. College students acted as ushers. Mother Teresa even attended. One usher almost stopped her because she lacked a ticket.
Pope John Paul II arrived at 9 am. He greeted people from a decorated motor float. He passed up the front drive blessing everyone. The Vice Provincial welcomed him. The Pope recalled his earlier Mass at the shrine. He prayed to Our Mother of Perpetual Help. He consecrated his Far East tour to her. He presented a candle from St. Mary Major’s in Rome.
He blessed all the Sisters especially the sick. One wheelchair-bound person was reportedly cured. The Pope greeted Redemptorist priests and friends. He embraced an aspirant with a crutch. Then he addressed the huge crowd from the Convento.
He insisted on visiting the refectory. He remembered where he sat eight years before. He took refreshments and chatted. As he left, he picked up two children. The crowd was delighted.
Today a plaque commemorates Pope John Paul II’s visits. It quotes his prayer to Our Mother of Perpetual Help. It asks her to intercede for those suffering from poverty and afflictions. The Pope’s words offer comfort.
Pope John Paul II’s visits left a lasting impact. In 1995, he drew 4 million people to a Mass in Manila. It was one of the largest papal events ever. He honored the dignity of Filipinos. He thanked those who served the pilgrims.
The Pope’s message resonated deeply. It showed his love for the Filipino people. It also showed his dedication to faith and social justice. His legacy continues to inspire.