From the Desk of
Bishop Edward U. Kmiec

April 2, 2005

My Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Although we knew this day would come, it is still a very difficult time for the Catholic Church as we mourn the loss of our father, our spiritual leader, the man who poured his entire being into the papacy. As a result, our Church has been strengthened and remains committed to the values that the Holy Father so clearly articulated during the 26 years in which he guided us.

Pope John Paul II led the Catholic Church through important and challenging times, and despite the many challenges he and the Church faced, he always remained true to his convictions. He was truly a pope of the people, taking more than 100 foreign trips during his papacy. We will remember him as a heroic figure of deep faith as he worked to build the Kingdom of God on earth.

The pope was at the forefront of the most important issues of the day. He led the pro-life movement with a clear and strong voice, showing the world the path to a culture of life. He was an advocate for human rights around the world, calling out abuses and pressing government leaders for change. His comfort and prayerful support for the sick and dying was another hallmark of his papacy, especially for those afflicted with HIV/AIDS. He set a high standard for all who minister.

We will always remember the major role he played in the fall of communism. His actions helped millions in Eastern Europe to enjoy the freedoms many of us take for granted. And even in his dying days, he was a strong advocate for peace, urging world leaders to look for other ways to bring an end to armed conflicts, or to avoid them altogether.

His very public suffering in the final years of his life was wonderful testimony to the sanctity of life. His will and determination showed the world how precious life is.

On a personal level, I am deeply saddened by the passing of our Holy Father. He appointed me as auxiliary bishop of Trenton in 1982, as bishop of Nashville in 1992, and as bishop of Buffalo last August. I hold each of these papal appointments close to my heart and it is my hope that I have been worthy of the confidence he placed in me. I will miss him very much.

The Pope touched so many lives in so many ways. From his special connection to the youth of the world, to his love and respect for women religious, deacons and the laity, to his unbreakable bond with his brother priests, Pope John Paul II was indeed a shining example of what one can do with the gifts we are all given from God. He truly was a light for the world.

I ask the faithful of the Diocese of Buffalo to join me in praying for the repose of the soul of Pope John Paul II. We know that God will welcome him into heaven. May he rest in peace.

Devotedly in Christ,
+Most Rev. Edward U. Kmiec
Bishop of Buffalo