Two weeks have passed and the death of Pope John Paul II continues as worldwide coverage in the media. It’s the most publicized topic in the press of recent years, even surpassing the terrorist’s attacks of September 11th.

The world-wide College of Cardinals set April 18 as the start of its conclave to choose a successor to John Paul II in Rome.

There are calls prompting the canonization of John Paul II, however, if the rules of the Catholic Church were followed strictly, this subject only could be treated after 5 years. A group of cardinals are proposing a petition to canonize him now. In October 2005, there will be a bishop's meeting in Rome and the canonization may take place.

John Paul II gave the title of sainthood to more men and women than all his predecessors. It’s a long and detailed process to become a saint in the Catholic Church. Philippians 1:1 says: “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi…” The saints that Paul is referring to here did not belong to the type of saints referred to by the Roman Catholics. The saints in Philippi were common people like you and me. The term used in Greek means “separated and consecrated with a purpose to serve God”

When you were born in the family of God, by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, you acquired the title of sainthood. You were separated with a special purpose. This way, we can read Philippians 1:1 like this: “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the ones separated with a purpose to serve God at Kearny...”

By this bible text, you can add the word saint to your name. What a privilege! What a great responsibility!

Pr. Alcione