Pope John Paul II Testified Worldwide as Thousands Gather in His Memory

As Roman Catholics and Christians around the world mourn the passing away of one of the most popular Popes in history, Father Jarek Cielecki, editor of the Vatican news service has reported, "At a certain point, a few moments before he died, the Pope raised his right hand, moving it in an obvious, if only faint, gesture of blessing, as if he were aware of the crowd of the faithful present in the square who at the time were following the saying of the rosary.

"As soon as the prayer was over, the Pope made a very great effort and said the word ‘Amen’. A moment later, he was dead."

Minutes later the news of Pope John Paul II’s passing away spread out to the world and an testifying global mourning began. Almost instantly upon hearing the news, crying was heard among the 60,000 people that had packed into St Peter’s Square last night.

Reports have been common that a huge silence and hush has gripped the Vatican as a humble and respectful feeling has arisen to honour John Paul II. Roads leading into Rome have been full of people attempting to get to St Peter’s Square to pay their respects, and although huge traffic jams have appeared, a solemn silence has been observed.

Throughout the night, prayers were given to the large crowds via loudspeakers which were placed around the square.

Today, Sunday Mass was given in St Peter’s Square in memory of the passing away of the Pope. Hoards of faithful supporters of John Paul II packed into the area and stood shoulder-to-shoulder to give prayers, many with tears, for the late Pope.

As the Mass was given people waved pictures of the Pope, and every time that his face was shown on the giant screens, a huge round of applause was given.

Police said that 80,000 people were in the Square for the mass, with another 20,000 filling up the surrounding areas. The moment that brought emotions in the crowd to its peak was when Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, who is the Vatican undersecretary of state, read out the traditional Sunday noontime prayer – which Pope John Paul II had delivered throughout his pontificate.

With thoughts only of God and of love to the faithful followers, the Pope had prepared the prayer before he died. Many when told this in an announcement fought back tears as the great love that the Pope had showed throughout his time at the Vatican once again was revealed. An extended applause was given and then the usual words to begin the address were heard by the faithful – "Dear brothers and sisters..."

However, the extent that the Pope’s death has touched so many in the world can truly be seen by the services and prayers that have been given all over the globe today.

In Poland, which is the Pope’s native country, many filled the streets crying and praying in sorrow for the death of John Paul. In particular, the Pope’s home town of Wadowice thousands gathered to hold a vigil in the late Pope’s memory. Also in Krakow, where the Pope was born thousands more filled the streets – although just as was seen in Rome there was a sincere silence in the huge crowds, with many on their knees praying and others simply standing and weeping.

In Central London at Westminster Cathedral last night, hundreds quickly gathered as soon as the news was released. In silence the faithful filled the pews, and the beautiful noise of prayers promptly filled the room.

The leader of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales, Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor led the worshippers in prayer. In a heart-felt testimony to the late Pope he said, "He was a faithful bearer on earth of the mystery of your forgiveness and grace on earth."

Further hymns and prayers were given as more and more mourners continuously came to pay their respects. A soundless queue was formed to sign a book of condolence for John Paul II. One entry reportedly said, "Thank you for all you have done to the Church. I pray God that we, with the help of the Holy Spirit, will follow your example."

Tomorrow Westminster Cathedral will hold a Solemn Vespers of the Dead for the Pope, and among those expected to attend are Prime Minister Tony Blair, a senior member of the Royal family, representatives from the heads of state, leaders from religious organisations and Christian denominations, including the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

Now tens of thousands of pilgrims are expected to travel to Rome throughout the next few days to gather, and the Vatican is currently putting in place plans to facilitate this great influx of people.

Many have testified Pope John Paul II today, and in particular a great reverence was felt towards the Pope for the way that he handled himself in his final few days. His heart towards not only a billion Catholics, but also to all people was felt as he refused to give up his task to lead them spiritually. His attitude throughout life and even until his final breath has brought great admiration from faithful and non-believers alike.