Pope John Paul II

[Scottler]

Fox News is quoting an Italian news agency's report which says that Pope John Paul II has, in fact, passed away.

There has not yet been any official confirmation of this yet.

[Craig.]

yeah his cardiogram or whatever it is called has gone flat reportedly along with the bronze door being closed which is also a sign. If this is the case may he rest in peace.

[flyboy 28]

[Smoke2much]

I'm not Catholic so I cannot comprehend the depth of feeling but may he rest in peace.

Will

[Scottler]

lol the irony is that I'm not Catholic either.  I've just always admired the man.  Sad day, indeed.

[ATI_7500]

- The Pope
- Harald Juhnke (german entertainer)
- Prince Rainier of Monte Carlo (soon)

All of 'em well over 70, so nothing surprising.

[ozzy72]

Its official. Passed away a short while ago (not got an official time yet).
Sad news for Catholics the world over, and a loss for everyone as he was a shining example of how we should live with one another...
I feel especially sorry for Poles as he was their leading light in the fight against communism, and a true hero to all Poles (even the members of The Party)

[Scottler]

Oz, where'd you get your confirmation?  I'm keeping my mom and wife informed via email, and I'm trying to verify as much as I can first.  lol

[Craig.]

There is still confusion as to his condition. Expect an official statement soon though as this isnt something they will want to leave to rumors to long.

[jordonj]

Not sure how I feel on this one...he did a lot of great things, on the other hand, my mind keeps thinking back to the molestation of thousands of young kids (many boys), and of the magdalene asylums in Ireland...things the Catholic church tried to sweep under the rug while under his watch.

If he condemned these things, someone please let me know, but I never heard any word from him about any of it.

[Omag 2.0]

Sad, though I have some footnotes:

A) It's another mortal soul, head of the Catholic church I agree, but countless people die every day and no-one seems to care...

B) I think it's a blessing for him. Last days, especially Easter was a unhuman charade. The poor guy was in such bad shape, they should have let him rest instead of using him to please the masses.

So, I am sad for Karol Josef Wojtyla as a person.

[C]

Vatican giving statement now (2003BST), but deny that the Pope has passed away, but are expecting the inevitable very soon.

[Craig.]

the official report now says he hasnt died, but they are expecting him to be in his last night. My Italian is not that good so cant be any more help. Plus the news here is talking over these people.

[Scottler]

Guys, can we keep this on topic and non-emotional please?  I'm simply putting it out there as I hear the events.  It isn't meant to be a thread about anything other than what we're all hearing around the world.

Thanks.

[Saitek]

BBC news is saying he is hanging on a string....