Matthew's Journal

"This evening, or this night, Christ opens the door to the Pope", according to Angelo Comastri, Vicar general of the Vatican. Whatever you think of John Paul II's ecclesiology and his theology, he's certainly achieved a lot, was undeniably a holy man, and has for some time been very seriously ill. He has borne the difficulties of his recent illness with notable dignity and humility, and has strived throughout to keep in contact with his flock.

There will be a time for people to sit down and think about his papacy: what it achieved, what it failed to achieve. Much sooner, the conclave will meet to choose the next person to take the see of Rome. There will doubtless be much speculation about who that person will be, what their agenda is likely to be.

Now is not the time for these things. Now is the time to remember the man, and hope his passing into eternity is smooth.

Of your charity, pray for a gentle and dignified passing, and for the respose of his soul.