A collection of Saint John Paul II quotes and sayings. He is probably the most famous and greatest man of the 20th Century.
The truth is not always the same as the majority decision. ~St. John Paul II
“It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you; He is the beauty to which you are so attracted; it is He who provoked you with that thirst for fullness that will not let you settle for compromise; it is He who urges you to shed the masks of a false life; it is He who reads in your heart your most genuine choices, the choices that others try to stifle.
It is Jesus who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives, the will to follow an ideal, the refusal to allow yourselves to be ground down by mediocrity, the courage to commit yourselves humbly and patiently to improving yourselves and society, making the world more human and more fraternal.” St. John Paul II
An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie, for an excuse is a lie guarded. ~St. John Paul II
Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought. ~St. John Paul II
Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song. ~St. John Paul II
Mary is the sure path to our meeting with Christ. Devotion to the Mother of the Lord, when it is genuine, is always an impetus to a life guided by the spirit and values of the Gospel. ~St. John Paul II
Science can purify religion from error and superstition. Religion can purify science from idolatry and false absolutes. ~St. John Paul II
The worst prison would be a closed heart. ~St. John Paul II
Social justice cannot be attained by violence. Violence kills what it intends to create. ~St. John Paul II
Violence and arms can never resolve the problems of men. ~St. John Paul II
War is a defeat for humanity. ~St. John Paul II
Life is entrusted to man as a treasure which must not be squandered, as a talent which must be used well. ~St. John Paul II
Know what you are talking about. ~St. John Paul II
Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth- in a word, to know himself- so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves. ~St. John Paul II
God is Love. We eventually have to ask ourselves the question; why was Love nailed to a cross? ~St. John Paul II
Be not afraid. ~St. John Paul II
The way Jesus shows you is not easy. Rather, it is like a path winding up a mountain. Do not lose heart! The steeper the road, the faster it rises towards ever wider horizons. ~St. John Paul II
Man’s life comes from God: it is his image and imprint, as sharing in his breath of life. God therefore is the sole Lord of this life: Man cannot do with it as he wills. ~St. John Paul II
Wages must enable the worker and his family to have access to a truly human standard of living in the material, social, cultural and spiritual orders. It is the dignity of the person which constitutes the criterion for judging work, not the other way around. ~St. John Paul II
Darkness can only be scattered by light, hatred can only be conquered by love. ~St. John Paul II
True holiness does not mean a flight from the world; rather, it lies in the effort to incarnate the Gospel in everyday life, in the family, at school and at work, and in social and political involvement. ~St. John Paul II
There is no evil to be faced that Christ does not face with us. There is no enemy that Christ has not already conquered. There is no cross to bear that Christ has not alreasy borne for us, and does not now bear with us. ~St. John Paul II
Finally, true freedom is not advanced in the per missive society, which confuses freedom with licence to do anything whatever and which in the name of freedom proclaims a kind of general amorality. It is a caricature of freedom to claim that people are free to organize their lives with no reference to moral values, and to say that society does not have to ensure the protection and advancement of ethical values. Such an attitude is destructive of freedom and peace. There are many examples of this mistaken idea of freedom, such as the elimination of human life by legalized or generally accepted abortion. ~St. John Paul II
Do not forget that true love sets no conditions; it does not calculate or complain, but simply loves. ~St. John Paul II
Faced with today’s problems and disappointments, many people will try to escape from their responsibility. Escape in selfishness, escape in sexual pleasure, escape in drugs, escape in violence, escape in indifference and cynical attitudes. I propose to you the option of love, which is the opposite of escape. ~St. John Paul II
What really maters in life is that we are loved by Christ and that we love Him in return. In comparison to the love of Jesus, everything else is secondary. And, without the love of Jesus, everything is useless. ~St. John Paul II
As the family goes, so goes the nation and so goes the whole world in which we live. ~St. John Paul II
I cannot fail to note once again that the poor constitute the modern challenge, especially for the well-off of our planet, where millions of people live in inhuman conditions and many are literally dying of hunger. It is not possible to announce God the Father to these brothers and sisters without taking on the responsibility of building a more just society in the name of Christ. ~St. John Paul II
Stupidity is also a gift from God, but one mustn’t misuse it. ~St. John Paul II
On Mahatma Ghandi, during a visit to India in 1986:”He was never a Christian and he never pretended to be a Christian, but I learned a lot from him.” ~St. John Paul II
Forgiveness is above all a personal choice, a decision of the heart to go against the natural instinct to pay back evil with evil. ~St. John Paul II
The future starts today, not tomorrow. ~St. John Paul II
Thus to share in the sufferings of Christ is, at the same time, to suffer For the kingdom of God. In the eyes of the just God, before his judgement, Those who share in the sufferings of Christ become worthy of this kingdom. ~St. John Paul II
When freedom does not have a purpose, when it does not wish to know anything about the rule of law engraved in the hearts of men and women, when it does not listen to the voice of conscience, it turns against humanity and society. ~St. John Paul II
Do not be afraid. Do not be satisfied with mediocrity. Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch. ~St. John Paul II
Precisely in an age when the inviolable rights of the person are solemnly proclaimed and the value of life is publicly affirmed, the very right to life is being denied or trampled upon, especially at the more significant moments of existence: the moment of birth and the moment of death. ~St. John Paul II
The cemetery of the victims of human cruelty in our century is extended to include yet another vast cemetery, that of the unborn. ~St. John Paul II
I have a sweet tooth for song and music. This is my Polish sin. ~St. John Paul II
A nation that kills its own children has no future. ~St. John Paul II
Physical condition or advancing of age are not obstacles to a perfect life. God does not look at external things but at the soul. ~St. John Paul II
The question confronting the Church today is not any longer whether the man in the street can grasp a religious message, but how to employ the communications media so as to let him have the full impact of the Gospel message. ~St. John Paul II
In Christ and through Christ man has acquired full awareness of his dignity, of the heights to which he is raised, of the surpasssing worth of his own humanity, and of the meaning of his existence. ~St. John Paul II
Marriage is an act of will that signifies and involves a mutual gift, which unites the spouses and binds them to their eventual souls, with whom they make up a sole family – a domestic church. ~St. John Paul II
The great danger for family life, in the midst of any society whose idols are pleasure, comfort and independence, lies in the fact that people close their hearts and become selfish. ~St. John Paul II
Euthanasia is a grave violation of the law of God, since it is the deliberate and morally unacceptable killing of a human person. ~St. John Paul II
The evil of our times consists in the first place in a kind of degradation, indeed in a pulverization, of the fundamental uniqueness of each human person. ~St. John Paul II
Truth must be the foundation stone, the cement to solidify the entire social edifice. ~St. John Paul II
Each man, in his suffering, can also become a sharer in the redemptive suffering of Christ. ~St. John Paul II
The distinctive mark of the Christian, today more than ever, must be love for the poor, the weak, the suffering. ~St. John Paul II
It is a mistake to apply American democratic procedures to the faith and the truth. You cannot take a vote on the truth. The value of democracy stands or falls with the values which it embodies and promotes. ~St. John Paul II
The family, as the fundamental and essential educating community, is the privileged means for transmitting the religious and cultural values which help the person to acquire his or her own identity. Founded on love and open to the gift of life, the family contains in itself the very future of society; its most special task is to contribute effectively to a future of peace. ~St. John Paul II
Dear young people of every language and culture, a high and exhilarating task awaits you: that of becoming men and women capable of solidarity, peace and love of life, with respect for everyone. Become craftsmen of a new humanity, where brothers and sisters — members all of the same family — are able at last to live in peace. ~St. John Paul II
Abortion, euthanasia, human cloning, for example, risk reducing the human person to a mere object: life and death to order, as it were! ~St. John Paul II
The commandment you shall not kill even in its more positive aspects of respecting, loving, and promoting human life, is binding on every individual human being. ~St. John Paul II
Similarly, euthanasia and assisted suicide are never acceptable acts of mercy. They always gravely exploit the suffering and desperate, extinguishing life in the name of the “quality of life” itself. ~St. John Paul II
The sickness of a family member, friend or neighbor is a call to Christians to demonstrate true compassion, that gentle and persevering sharing in another’s pain. ~St. John Paul II
To humanity, which sometimes seems to be lost and dominated by the power of evil, selfishness and fear, the risen Lord gives the gift of His love which forgives, reconciles and reopens the soul to hope. ~St. John Paul II
While it is true that the taking of life not yet born or in it’s final stages is sometimes marked by a mistaken sense of altruism and human compassion it cannot be denied that such a culture of death, taken as a whole, betrays a completely individualistic concept of freedom, which ends up by becoming the freedom of “the strong” against the weak who have no choice but to submit. ~St. John Paul II
The Gospel of life must be proclaimed and human life defended in all places and all times. ~St. John Paul II
And Christ, through His own salvific suffering, is very much present in every human suffering, and can act from within that suffering by the powers of His Spirit of truth, His consoling spirit. ~St. John Paul II
Peace is not just the absence of war. Like a cathedral, peace must be constructed patiently and with unshakable faith. ~St. John Paul II
Anything done for another is done for oneself. ~St. John Paul II
In the newborn child is realized the common good of the family. ~St. John Paul II
Do not be afraid to be saints. Follow Jesus Christ who is the source of freedom and light. Be open to the Lord so that He may lighten all your ways. ~St. John Paul II
The saints have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult moments in the Church’s history. ~St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II, often referred to as one of the most significant figures of the 20th century, left behind a legacy of faith, wisdom, and inspiration. His profound quotes and sayings continue to resonate with people of all walks of life, offering guidance and insight in the midst of life’s complexities. Let’s embark on a journey through the wisdom of Saint John Paul II, exploring his thoughts on truth, freedom, faith, love, and the human condition.
The Unwavering Pursuit of Truth
“The truth is not always the same as the majority decision.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words remind us that truth is not determined by popular opinion. In a world often swayed by trends and conformity, holding onto one’s convictions can be challenging. However, he emphasizes the importance of standing firm in our pursuit of truth, even when it goes against the prevailing norms. Truth is a guiding light that should never be compromised for the sake of fitting in.
The Quest for Fulfillment in Jesus
“It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II beautifully captures the essence of human longing and spiritual fulfillment in this quote. He highlights that true happiness can only be found in our relationship with Jesus. In a world that often offers superficial substitutes for happiness, he encourages us to recognize the deep and unquenchable thirst for spiritual fullness within us.
The Deceptive Nature of Excuses
“An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie, for an excuse is a lie guarded.” – St. John Paul II
Excuses often serve as shields to protect us from taking responsibility for our actions. Saint John Paul II’s insight reminds us that excuses are not only dishonest but can also prevent personal growth and accountability. Rather than hiding behind excuses, he encourages us to confront our mistakes and shortcomings with honesty and humility.
The True Essence of Freedom
“Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought.” – St. John Paul II
In a world that often celebrates unrestrained freedom, Saint John Paul II provides a profound perspective on the true nature of freedom. He suggests that genuine freedom is not about doing whatever we desire but having the moral and ethical right to make choices that align with our sense of responsibility and duty. True freedom empowers us to make virtuous decisions that benefit not only ourselves but also others.
The Easter Message of Hope
“Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words resonate with the message of hope that Easter brings. Even in the face of adversity and despair, he reminds us that we are a people of resurrection and renewal. The triumphant cry of “hallelujah” signifies our unwavering faith in the power of redemption and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
The Role of Mary in Faith
“Mary is the sure path to our meeting with Christ. Devotion to the Mother of the Lord, when it is genuine, is always an impetus to a life guided by the spirit and values of the Gospel.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s deep devotion to the Virgin Mary is evident in this quote. He emphasizes that Mary serves as a bridge to a closer relationship with Christ. Through her example and intercession, we can lead lives that reflect the teachings and values of the Gospel. Mary’s role in our faith journey is a source of inspiration and guidance for Catholics worldwide.
The Harmony Between Science and Religion
“Science can purify religion from error and superstition. Religion can purify science from idolatry and false absolutes.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II recognized that science and religion need not be at odds. Instead, they can complement and enrich each other. He believed that science, when guided by ethical and moral principles, can help us better understand the natural world. Conversely, religion, when approached with an open heart and mind, can provide spiritual insights and values that guide the ethical application of scientific discoveries.
The Peril of a Closed Heart
“The worst prison would be a closed heart.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words remind us of the importance of keeping our hearts open to love, compassion, and empathy. A closed heart, one shielded from genuine human connection, is a self-imposed prison that isolates us from the beauty of life and the richness of relationships. To experience the fullness of life, we must be willing to open our hearts to others and embrace vulnerability.
The Futility of Violence
“Social justice cannot be attained by violence. Violence kills what it intends to create.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s stance on violence underscores the counterproductive nature of aggression in pursuing social justice. He acknowledges the desire for a more just and equitable society but emphasizes that violence only perpetuates suffering and destruction. Instead, he encourages peaceful means and dialogue as the path to meaningful change.
The Ineffectiveness of Armed Conflict
“Violence and arms can never resolve the problems of men.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s profound understanding of the futility of violence in resolving human conflicts is a timeless message for a world often plagued by strife. He recognizes that resorting to arms may temporarily suppress issues, but it does not address their root causes. To achieve lasting peace and resolution, he advocates for diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation.
The Tragic Consequences of War
“War is a defeat for humanity.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words poignantly capture the devastating impact of war on humanity. He views war not as a triumph but as a tragic failure of our ability to resolve conflicts peacefully. In a world that has witnessed the horrors of war throughout history, he reminds us of the urgent need to seek alternatives to armed conflict and to work towards a more peaceful world.
Embracing the Gift of Life
“Life is entrusted to man as a treasure which must not be squandered, as a talent which must be used well.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s reverence for the sanctity of life is evident in this quote. He views life as a precious gift, a treasure to be cherished and nurtured. Our existence carries with it a responsibility to use our time wisely and make a positive impact on the world. Each day presents an opportunity to make the most of this gift.
The Importance of Knowledge
“Know what you are talking about.” – St. John Paul II
In a world inundated with information, Saint John Paul II’s simple yet profound statement serves as a reminder of the value of knowledge. Whether in discussions, debates, or decision-making, having a deep understanding of the subjects at hand is crucial. It enables us to make informed choices and contribute meaningfully to the world.
The Harmonious Blend of Faith and Reason
“Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II recognized the inherent harmony between faith and reason. He understood that our pursuit of truth is enriched when faith and reason work in tandem. Faith provides us with spiritual insights, while reason allows us to comprehend the world around us. This synthesis of faith and reason guides us toward a deeper understanding of both ourselves and the divine.
The Profound Mystery of God’s Love
“God is Love. We eventually have to ask ourselves the question; why was Love nailed to a cross?” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s reflection on the crucifixion invites us to contemplate the profound mystery of God’s love. The crucifixion of Jesus is a powerful symbol of sacrificial love and redemption. It prompts us to ponder the depths of God’s love for humanity, as well as our response to this incredible gift of salvation.
Courage in the Face of Challenges
“Be not afraid.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words, “Be not afraid,” echo the message of hope and courage that he consistently shared with the world. In times of uncertainty and adversity, he reminds us that fear need not dictate our actions. Instead, we can draw strength from our faith and face life’s challenges with resilience and trust.
The Ascending Path of Faith
“The way Jesus shows you is not easy. Rather, it is like a path winding up a mountain…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s analogy of faith as a winding mountain path acknowledges the challenges and difficulties that believers may encounter. However, he encourages us not to lose heart, for the steepness of the road ultimately leads to broader horizons. The journey of faith, though demanding, offers profound spiritual growth and enlightenment.
The Divine Origin of Life
“Man’s life comes from God: it is his image and imprint…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s assertion that human life is a gift from God underscores the sanctity and inherent dignity of every individual. He recognizes that life is not a mere accident but a reflection of God’s divine image. This perspective compels us to respect and protect the lives of all, from conception to natural death.
The Dignity of Labor
“Wages must enable the worker and his family to have access to a truly human standard of living…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s advocacy for just wages reflects his commitment to social justice and the dignity of the worker. He emphasizes that the value of work should not be measured solely in economic terms but also in its ability to provide for a person’s material, social, cultural, and spiritual well-being. This perspective prioritizes the welfare of individuals and their families.
The Triumph of Love over Darkness
“Darkness can only be scattered by light, hatred can only be conquered by love.” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s words remind us of the transformative power of love and light. Darkness and hatred can often seem insurmountable, but he offers a message of hope. Love, compassion, and understanding have the ability to dispel darkness and conquer hatred. It is through acts of kindness and love that we can bring positive change to the world.
Holiness in Everyday Life
“True holiness does not mean a flight from the world; rather, it lies in the effort to incarnate the Gospel in everyday life…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s perspective on holiness challenges the notion that it requires isolation from the world. Instead, he emphasizes that true holiness is found in living out the Gospel in our daily interactions and responsibilities. It invites us to embrace a life of virtue and love, making a positive impact on society through our actions and choices.
The Ever-Present Support of Christ
“There is no evil to be faced that Christ does not face with us. There is no enemy that Christ has not already conquered…” – St. John Paul II
Saint John Paul II’s comforting words remind us that we are never alone in our struggles and challenges. Christ stands with us, offering support, guidance, and victory over adversity. These words provide solace and strength, reassuring us that we can overcome any obstacle with the unwavering presence of Christ by our side.
In conclusion, the wisdom and insights of Saint John Paul II continue to inspire and guide individuals on their journeys through life. His profound quotes touch on themes of truth, faith, love, freedom, and the human condition, offering a perspective that transcends time and speaks to the heart of the human experience. As we reflect on his words, may we find solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the spiritual and moral dimensions of our existence.