Pope John Paul II (1920-2005) formerly named Karol Joseph Wojtyla was born on May 18, 1920, in Poland, the youngest of three children, Karol Joseph and Emilia. His younger sister, elder brother and mother died in his younger age. Carol’s father, a soldier, passed away at the age of 15. Thoughts of orphan hood led him to the presence of God. He called all his own people and realized that God was coming into him. Thus he gave up drama and literature and embraced seminary life.
After receiving the priesthood, he served in the churches of the hamlets. He was ordained Bishop on September 28, 1958. He entered the ministry at the age of 38 with the motto ‘Completely Yours’ or ‘totus tuus’.
He was fortunate to be the first to attend the Vatican Council. He also became a metropolitan during that period. In 1967, Pope Paul VI elevated him to the rank of Cardinal. On September 20, 1978, Pope John Paul I was called to heaven after 33 days of rule. On October 16, 1978, at Conclave, Cardinal Karol Wojtyla was elected as the Pope and adopted the title of John Paul II. Thus the 264th charioteer of the Church was elected from the communist country of Poland.
He was called for the Eternal Gift on April 2, 2005. Announced as Blessed on May 1, 2011 and was canonized on April 27, 2014.