BISHOPS CELEBRATE THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF POPE JOHN PAUL II

Sunday next, 2 April 2006, is the first anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II. 
Irish Bishops are marking this anniversary by remembering the late Pope at Masses in 
their dioceses on this date and by celebrating a special Mass for him on Monday 3 April. 
 
These special Masses will be an opportunity for all – and in particular for the Polish 
community in Ireland - to celebrate the legacy of Pope John Paul II’s influence on 
humanity. 

The Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland Dr Seán Brady said: “It is almost 
one year since the late Pope John Paul II gave to the world a marvellous example of how 
to face death peacefully and courageously.  It was Easter time, of course, and the eve 
of Mercy Sunday, a time when the Risen Christ tells us not be afraid but to put our trust 
in his mercy.
 
“Now, one year later, as we prepare to celebrate the first anniversary of Pope John Paul’s 
death we are also preparing to celebrate the anniversary of the death of Christ.  Pope 
John Paul II bore his suffering with great patience and so gave hope to all who suffer 
at this time.”
 
The Irish Bishops have commissioned a special prayer in memory of Pope John Paul II 
which is available in English, Irish and Polish at www.catholiccommunications.ie 
 
On Sunday 2 April, RTÉ 1 intends to broadcast a television studio Mass at 11:15am, 
celebrated by Fr Pat McManus, from Mount Merrion parish in Dublin.  That night there 
will also be a special prayer for the late Pope in An Evening Prayer, after the Late 
News.
 
Nationwide on RTÉ 1 television will film a special commemoration programme, with the 
Polish community in Cork, at the exact time of the Pope's death, for transmission later 
in the week.  
RTÉ television and radio news will also cover local celebrations as well as anniversary 
events in Rome.
 
NOTES TO EDITORS
 
Dioceses celebrating the first anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II:  
Click here for information on diocesan events
to mark the 1st anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II.
 
Vatican marks the first anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II
In St. Peter's Square at 5.30 p.m. on Monday, April 3, Pope Benedict XVI will preside 
at a Mass marking the first anniversary of the death of John Paul II.
 
At 9.00p.m. on Sunday, April 2, a year to the day after the late pontiff's demise, 
Cardinal Camillo Ruini, the Pope's vicar general for the diocese of Rome, will preside 
at the recitation of the Rosary in St. Peter's Square. Following the recitation, the 
Holy Father will greet those present from the window of his private study.

Ends
29th March 2006 
 
Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)