On the evening of April 2, hundreds gathered in Lower Manhattan to honor Pope Saint John Paul II, commemorating the 20th anniversary of his passing into eternal life. The beloved pontiff, who led the Catholic Church for more than 26 years, continues to inspire the faithful around the world.

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The commemoration began with a solemn Mass at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, celebrated by Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations. In his homily, Archbishop Caccia reflected on Saint John Paul II’s lasting witness to truth and courage, qualities that marked his papacy and his life.