Twenty six years ago, on October 16, 1978, Cardinal Karol Wojtyla of Krakow in Poland, was elected the 264th Successor of St. Peter the Apostle, choosing the name John Paul II. A few days after on October 22, the solemn ceremony-inaugurating the start of his office as Supreme Pastor of the Universal Catholic Church took place at St. Peter’s square in Vatican.

In these 26 years as Vicar of Jesus Christ in the apostolic succession, Pope John Paul II is really a unique figure in the history of the world. His moral authority is universally recognized. His prestige is such that no one can ignore his efforts to uphold human dignity, respect for life, his unwavering dedication to the cause of the marginalized, the elderly, the sick and the defenseless without distinction of race and creed and last but not least, his well-appreciated contributions in building a culture of life and civilization of love, where forgiveness, justice and peace reigns.

The many visits and journeys made by the Holy Father within Italy and in more than 129 other countries are clear expressions of his constant pastoral concern and care for the people of God. They show his untiring efforts in strengthening and giving witness to the unity within the Catholic Church, in promoting communion among various Christian communities, in initiating and encouraging dialogue and collaboration – in a spirit of respect – with members of other religions, as well as with men and women of good will.

Under his guidance, the Holy See sustains friendly relations with national communities, maintaining diplomatic ties with 176 countries and has been involved in numerous initiatives to support development in many countries and to contribute to the peaceful solution of problems and conflicts… as well as possibly to prevent them, through the spreading of a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. By way of the presence and the active participation of the Holy See in the conference and meetings organized by the United Nations Organization and other international institutions, Pope John Paul II expresses his concern for the progress and well-being of the family of nations and his endless commitment for the promotion of stability, understanding and good cooperation among peoples.

The assistance given by the Holy See though the network of the Catholic Church as personified by the examples of the Holy Father to victims of wars or natural disasters and to charitable and social activities has been very well known. Although the Catholic Church in Singapore does not comprise a very large congregation, nonetheless, it is very active in the fields of education, health services and other social-humanitarian projects. She intends, with full willingness and deep respect, today as in the past, to offer her noble efforts to promote dialogue among cultures and religions in order to faster the existing harmony in the nation and to contribute to its advancement with all her energies and in accordance with her own spiritual mission.

I take this opportunity to respectfully express my best wishes for prosperity and happiness to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Singapore, the Government and People of Singapore.

On this auspicious occasion of the 26th Anniversary of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope John Paul II, let us offer with a sense of gratitude our heartfelt congratulations and greetings. May the Almighty God continue to bless the Holy Father and fill him with accomplishments for the benefit of the entire Catholic Church and of mankind.

Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio
Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Singapore