Shrine Plans JPII/Polish Heritage Day

The National Shrine of The Divine Mercy will again celebrate one of Eden Hill's most popular days, John Paul II/Polish Heritage Day. The Saturday, Oct. 18, celebration marks the 30th anniversary of the election of Cardinal Karol Wojtyla as Pope. According to Shrine Rector Fr. Anthony Gramlich, MIC, the 30th anniversary makes the day extra special.

"For me," Fr. Anthony says, "the anniversary recalls the importance of John Paul not just as one of the greatest spiritual leaders ever but also the role he played on the world stage, for example, helping to end communist rule in Poland and the Soviet Bloc. Pope John Paul II showed us the importance of God's mercy not only in defeating institutional evil but also on a personal level in assisting us in living good lives, doing the right thing, and making better choices."

The celebration kicks off at noon.

Pilgrimage Director Carol Scott-Mahoney has confirmed that the world-renowned photographic exhibit on the life of Karol Wojtyla will be displayed in the library and great room of the Shrine residence. Dramatic, oversized photos from some of the world's greatest photographers capture John Paul II in his various roles as son, soldier, priest, pastor, friend, worker, outdoorsman, and spiritual head.

The day will also feature presentations on the life of Pope John Paul II, a Holy Hour, a Rosary for Life, Holy Mass with Polish hymns, recitation of the Chaplet of The Divine Mercy in Polish and English, Benediction, and confession.
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