St. John Paul II 

Saint John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla) was born on May 18, 1920 in Wadowice (Poland). His vocation to the priesthood matured during the Second World War and in November 1946 he was ordained a priest. On October 16, 1978, at the age of 58, he was elected Pope. During his pontificate he visited 129 countries and, in 1984, he created the World Youth Day (WYD). He died on April 2, 2005 and was canonized on April 27, 2014. His feast day is celebrated on October 22. 

Crozier

One of the episcopal insignia, represents the office of the Good Shepherd, who guards and accompanies with concern the flock entrusted to him by the Holy Spirit. Pope John Paul II’s crozier was particularly recognizable by its striking crucifix. 

Prayer

God, rich in mercy,
who placed Pope John Paul II,
founder of World Youth Day,
at the head of your Church,
grant that, instructed by his teachings,
we may confidently open our hearts
to the saving grace of Christ,
the only Savior of the world,
who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen. 

See here all the Patrons of WYD Lisbon 2023.