Twenty-five years on from the conclave that chose Pope Luciani
I very much liked his smile
In the two conclaves of 1978 the Archbishop of Manila was the youngest cardinal. Today he remembers..
by Cardinal Jaime L. Sin
John Paul I during an audience
During the conclave that elected or present Pope, I was still the doorkeeper. I was seated near Cardinal Karol Wojtyla of Poland. I noticed that he was very studious and reflective. He was quiet and preferred the background. He always carried a book (I think it was about philosophy). He never thought that he would be elected Pope. After all, we were used to an Italian Pontiff. But to his and the world’s surprise, he was elected the Vicar of Christ after several ballotings.
The world was anxious of the first Polish Pope in history. I guess he knew if that is why his first words during his coronation were: “Be not afraid!” True enough, we never fear for we have a brave, tireless and inspiring shepherd in Pope John Paul II. For the past twenty five years, John Paul II has led us in charity and holiness.
I join the whole world in thanking the Lord for sending us a great gift, a true shepherd, a vanguard of the faith, promoter of peace and champion of the human person. Viva il Papa!