Pope John Paul II made an impact on the world like few others in the previous hundred years, playing a leading role in the fall of Eastern European Communism from 1989 and also working tirelessly to revolutionise relations with other religions.

He passed away whilst in the 27th year of his reign and was the third-longest serving Pope in history. He was elected in 1978 as the first non-Italian Pontiff in 455 years. Originally a native from Poland, he endured much under Nazi and Stalinist occupation, an experience which made him realise the importance of personal morality and the ugly consequences for society when morals are set aside such as in his own experience of witnessing the Holocaust in his native land.

A man of huge intellect, intensity of prayer, he was one of the few Popes in centuries to have acceded to the throne of St Peter from poverty rather than privilege. He showed courage and compassion in equal abundance and worked tirelessly to promote the dignity of all human life and also promoted social justice.

He became for many an authoritative voice on morality and a steady rock for moral norms. It is doubtful there has ever been a Pope who has so successfully translated his strength, love and vision for humanity, determination and faith into such widespread respect and goodwill. In a world of shifting trends and leaders of questionable virtue, John Paul II has been a towering figure at the moral centre of modern life.