A man who has redefined the Papacy

AS the fourth longest-serving pontiff in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II, who yesterday celebrated the 25th anniversary of his papacy, has profoundly influenced the lives of millions of people.

Despite being ravaged by Parkinson’s disease and arthritis, he remains a dominant figure on the world stage. Though highly conservative on moral and doctrinal issues, he is a staunch advocate of social justice and global peace.

While the focus is now on the personal achievements of the ailing, 83-year-old Pope, the spotlight will increasingly turn on the future uncertainties of a Church whose authority is in question amid a rash of scandals.