After 26 years on the Papal throne, Pope John Paul II passed away Saturday from heart failure and septic shock.
John Paul II leaves a legacy as a leader in touch with the youth movement and was beloved by believers of all ages. He organized World Youth Day. He was one of the few popes to condemn anti-Semitism and also asked forgiveness for the sins of the Crusades. He was also known as one of the most well-traveled popes in history.
He was also a staunch conservative and believed in very traditional values. Considering the strong political divide both at home and abroad right now, it will be interesting to see what type of pope the Vatican chooses next. Another strong conservative pope could energize the Catholic base, but a more moderate choice could have the effect of depoliticizing religion and giving Catholicism wider appeal worldwide.
For most college students, this is the first time in their life that they will witness the election of a new pope. There are many diverse possibilities, as the media are reporting on several South American and African candidates, in addition to the usual European suspects. The Vatican's political power waned in recent years due to John Paul's health problems, and it will be interesting to see how the new pope chooses to exert his power.
It is ironic to note that the pope was not kept alive by artificial means. With the final days of Terry Schiavo's life dominating the news prior to the pope's passing, it is an interesting juxtaposition to watch religious conservatives let the pope pass on without the same fight they put up for Schiavo.
