Recently, a multi-week challenge called “Witness of Hope” was on air on the Hallow app. Behind this mysterious title was none other than Pope John Paul II. An emotional and moving biography of Pope John Paul II. was read aloud in every language in which Hallow exists. The German version focused on George Weigel’s stories and interspersed texts from the Holy Pope and his heartfelt prayers.
We were able to participate as the Center John Paul II. and so Agnes, a member of our BeFree host team, and Maria, part of the Music Ministry leadership team, gave their voices to the challenge. The two tell us how this experience was for them and how Pope John Paul II. also accompanied and touched them through this time!
“Servant of your servants”
The first question Agnes and Maria answered was what connection they had to Pope John Paul. II.
Maria: As both my parents are great admirers of his person and are convinced of his holiness and even had the privilege of meeting him a few times independently of each other, he has been present in my life since I was very young. I think of pictures of him in our home, (children’s) books about his life and work, his compositions, films etc. and of course the enthusiasm and emotion of my parents when they talk about him. All the better that my sisters and I can now be part of the ZJPII community.
Agnes: I first learned about John Paul II. about 5 years ago through my first contact with the Center. At that time I was not really familiar with him and his works, but I knew that he was a significant historical and spiritual figure who influenced many people around the world. John Paul II. became known for his role in promoting dialog between religions, his advocacy for human rights and his travels to numerous countries. His philosophy and theological works have also left a deep mark. Many people find in him a role model for faith, courage and leadership. I also knew that he had initiated the very first World Youth Day and that young people were particularly close to his heart, which I find a particularly beautiful initiative.
Which part of the challenge touched you the most?
Maria: I was particularly moved by the 12th episode, “Do not be afraid”, which deals with the inauguration of JPII. I was very touched and inspired by how much he wanted to be a servant, even a “servant of your servants”, and how close and empathetic he was towards the people (still grieving over the death of Pope John Paul I) and with what conviction he lived by ‚his‘ motto “Do not be afraid” and passed it on.
Agnes: I was particularly touched by the second section of the challenge, which includes the theology of the body and the rosary of mercy. In the ‚Theology of the Body‘, Pope John Paul II. writes about the importance of the body and its connection with the soul. John Paul II. also spoke about how the body plays a central role in the Christian hope of resurrection and redemption. The bodily resurrection is an essential part of the Christian hope, and says that the body will be whole and perfect in eternity in its original, God-ordained form. It also says that the love we experience on earth is only a foretaste of what we may one day experience with our Father in heaven. Knowing that all people are created from and especially for love is a particularly beautiful thought for me.
I found the combination with the rosary of mercy very beautiful. This was brought into being by Faustina Kowalska, who had visions and revelations from Jesus in which He asked her to spread this prayer in order to lead people to God’s immeasurable mercy.
The two young women were able to study the writings and works of John Paul II. a lot in preparation for the Weeks of Challenge. We therefore asked them which of his works was the most inspiring for them.
Maria: Of the texts considered in the challenge, I was particularly touched by the excerpt from the “Theology of the Body”. It deals with how only the body is able to make an invisible reality and thus the spiritual and divine visible. Our bodies are therefore not only biological, but also theological, as they reveal something about God – namely about our God, who is love, who created us in His image and therefore also in the image of love. We are called to be loved and to love. That needs to sink in for a moment. No matter how many times I have read or heard these words, they touch me anew every time and put me in a state of deep gratitude and amazement at our Creator, who is love.
Agnes: My favorite text by Pope John Paul II. is one of the texts that I was allowed to speak, namely ‚Mulieris dignitatem‘, which deals with the importance of women. Pope John Paul II. emphasizes that women bear the “image of God” no less than men and therefore have the same inviolable dignity. The Pope emphasizes the equal value of men and women before God and speaks out against all forms of discrimination. It is not just about the external recognition of women, but about the inner dignity and value of every woman as a person. However, it also addresses the fact that men and women have different but complementary vocations in the church and society. For me, this text is one of the most beautiful and important apostolic writings and I am convinced that every young woman should read it.
What did you take away from your participation in “Witness of Hope”?
Maria: It was a great joy and enrichment to be able to take part in this challenge. On the one hand, I was able to learn more about the person, the incredible life story and the beautiful texts of St. Pope John Paul II., and on the other hand, it was touching to pray these powerful prayers knowing that this holy man prayed them too. In doing so, I felt a special sense of unity and I think it reminded me once again that we are ALL called to holiness and to follow Christ. It made me grow in gratitude for these strong role models.
Agnes: The Hallow Challenge was particularly enriching because, firstly, I got an insight behind the scenes and, secondly, it was also very exciting to be able to recite these instructive texts. On the one hand, I was able to learn more about the texts of Pope John Paul II., and on the other, I was able to find peace in praying the rosary and incorporate it into my weekly routine.
Finally, these two young women have a few words to inspire you.
Maria: Don’t be afraid!!
Agnes: Finally, I would like say that I am aware that reading apostolic writings and praying the rosary can often be difficult and challenging. One often lacks the motivation and stamina to deal with these writings and prayers. Although, in retrospect, dealing with these topics has always been enriching for me, I can understand that this is often difficult at first. I am convinced that Hallow can be a huge support in engaging more with Catholic prayers and texts. At a time when social media has some dark sides and is often characterized by falsehoods and hate, apps like Hallow make a huge difference and help us not to lose sight of our faith and to focus on what really matters, namely our relationship with Jesus.
