Pope Saint John Paul II was one of the most influential popes in modern history. Shaped by the hardships of Nazi occupation and communist rule, he became a priest, theologian, and ultimately pope—the first non-Italian pope in over 450 years. His 26-year papacy, one of the longest in history, emphasized human dignity, global peace, interfaith dialogue, and the sanctity of life. He played a crucial role in the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, especially in his native Poland, through his advocacy for freedom and human rights. Despite suffering from Parkinson’s disease later in life, he remained a powerful spiritual leader until his death in 2005. He was canonized in 2014.

When I was inspired to begin painting a series of saints, his was the first image I chose. Only now do I realize why: one of his greatest messages was the call for this generation to a New Evangelization, particularly in his Letter to Artists. I feel that he has journeyed with me in a special way through my ministry of creating sacred art.