Pope

Saint John Paul II

Saint John Paul II served as Pope from 1978 to 2005. Born Karol Wojtyła in Poland, he was the first non-Italian pope in over four centuries. A theologian, philosopher, and tireless evangelist, he canonized more saints than any previous pope and founded World Youth Day. He was canonized in 2014.

Patron saint of World Youth Day, Families, Young People
Feast
October 22
Era
20th Century
Place
Vatican City
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Saint John Paul II portrait

At a Glance

Saint John Paul II

Feast Day
October 22
Era
20th Century
Primary Place
Vatican City
Vocation
Pope
Patronage
World Youth Day, Families, Young People

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Overview

Saint John Paul II

Saint John Paul II served as Pope from 1978 to 2005. Born Karol Wojtyła in Poland, he was the first non-Italian pope in over four centuries. A theologian, philosopher, and tireless evangelist, he canonized more saints than any previous pope and founded World Youth Day. He was canonized in 2014.

Feast day: October 22

Patronage

World Youth Day, Families, Young People

Connected Places

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Kindred Saints

A few lives that echo Saint John Paul II's witness through place, patronage, era, or courage.