We mourn today the passing of Pope John Paul II.  Our church and our world 
has been served courageously and prophetically by his dedicated ministry 
built on his faith in Jesus Christ.  The bishop who chose ‘totus tuus’ 
(totally yours) as his motto lived up to its meaning in every aspect of 
his life. 
 
Since the election of Karol Wojtyla as Pope in 1978 the church has had a 
leader and shepherd of remarkable compassion, faith and vision.  As we 
mourn his passing we pray with thanksgiving to God for the ministry of 
Pope John Paul II and ask the Lord to welcome him to the company of all 
the faithful departed. 
 
I would like to invite people across the diocese to remember him in prayer 
during the next few days.  Masses and prayer services will offer thanks for 
his distinctive life as priest, bishop and Pope.  There will be a special 
Mass in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow, tomorrow Monday 4th April 
at 7.30pm. in remembrance of the late Pope John Paul II.
 
Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
 
+ Jim Moriarty
Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin
3 April 2005