St. John Paul II

When I was a newly-baptised Catholic at 21, I was gifted a book about St John Paul II. In reading about his life, I was opened up to a new reality — that a life of holiness is possible, and beautiful. St John Paul II then became the first saint who inspired me to be a saint.

Today, the Church celebrates his feast day, on the anniversary of his inauguration as Pope John Paul II.

It was on this day, 48 years ago, that he exhorted the people: “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors to Christ!”.

2 years later, his papacy would almost cost him his life, as an assassination attempt was made while he blessed the crowds in St Peter’s Square. Divine providence and the hand of Mary would then save him from a nearly fatal shot.

One might think he had many dangers to fear and enemies to condemn after, but he responded with a visit to his attempted assassin in prison, and hugged him.

“I pray for the brother who struck me, whom I have sincerely forgiven.” Aware of all the people I had condemned in my heart, he urged and taught me that forgiveness is possible in Christ.

His love for young people, which culminated in the conception of World Youth Day, has also reached me, a youth in Singapore.

“Do not be afraid to be holy! …since full, true freedom is born from holiness” (to the youth in Santiago de Compostela, 7 Aug 1999). In my satisfaction with a mediocre life, he beckoned me to live radically for Christ.

“I plead with you — never, ever give up hope, never doubt, never tire, and never become discouraged.” In my deepest sorrows, he spoke words of encouragement just as a friend would, and bore witness to the joy of hoping in Christ.

“Thank you women who are daughters… you bring the richness of your sensitivity, intuitiveness, generosity and fidelity” (Letter to Women, 29 June 1995). In my self-scrutiny and insecurities, he reminded me of my deepest vocation as a woman: to make a gift of myself.

As I continue to navigate God’s call for me and strive for sainthood as a youth in Singapore, I give thanks to God today for the gift of St John Paul II, who has illuminated a path of holiness before me: one that is possible, and beautiful.

St John Paul II, pray for us — may we not be afraid to be saints, just as you spent your whole life exhorting!