Senate Eyes Unanimous Support for John Paul II Resolution
In an interview with PAP, PiS senator Stanisław Karczewski urged the Senate to vote unanimously in defense of the good name of John Paul II. He highlighted that, just as in the Sejm, there is a push to pass a Senate resolution that defends the image of the late pope.
Karczewski noted his preference for a single Senate resolution on this matter, mirroring the Sejm approach, and he expressed disappointment at what he called the tardiness of Senate Marshal Tomasz Grodzki. He argued the vote should have occurred at the previous Senate session but welcomed the fact that a vote is planned at all.
The most recent Senate session took place on March 29–30, with the next session scheduled for May 10–11. Karczewski reaffirmed his hope for a united Senate vote in favor of defending John Paul II’s good name, though he conceded some uncertainty given the political mood in the Sejm.
Karczewski stressed that he hoped for a unanimous decision, noting the intent behind the motion connected to the pope’s legacy and its positive impact on national memory.
The motion, filed by PiS senators, recalls the pontiff’s historic Warsaw proclamation, urging, in Polish, that the spirit descend and renew the land. It underscores that John Paul II’s actions and words demonstrated love for the fatherland and supported Poland’s efforts to regain freedom and an independent state.
The Senate of the Republic of Poland condemned a media campaign linked to materials from the communist era, arguing that these efforts sought to discredit John Paul II, described as a central figure in Polish history and a symbol of national resilience. The chamber asserted that the pope’s influence extended beyond Poland, with world leaders recognizing his role in challenging oppressive forces.
The discussion also highlighted that the Polish pope occupies a unique place in history, having been raised in Polish piety and devotion to the Mother of God. He was portrayed as deeply aware of his nation’s aspirations and needs, and as a pillar for Poland’s journey toward freedom.
Officials emphasized that the image of a man widely acknowledged as a beacon of victory over oppression should not be undermined. The motion linked John Paul II to Poland’s regained independence and noted that his legacy continued to resonate with global leadership, including remarks made by U.S. President Joe Biden during a visit to Poland.
The PSL senators’ draft resolution on respecting John Paul II’s work and contributions to Poland, Europe, and the world recalled that Karol Wojtyła was elected pope on October 16, 1978, becoming the first non-Italian pope in centuries. It cited the pontiff’s Polish pilgrimage words about renewing the land and emphasized that his words and deeds inspired love for the homeland and supported the nation’s quest for freedom and sovereignty.
According to the proposal, John Paul II stands as a significant authority for Poland and many societies around the world, having provided a witness of faith, goodness, and patriotism. The Senate reaffirmed respect for his work and his impact on the history of Poland, Europe, and the world. It also noted the pope’s advocacy for human rights, social justice, and dignity for workers, portraying him as a proponent of social dialogue and national unity.
The Senate expressed gratitude to John Paul II for the restoration of freedom and the awakening of dignity among nations, framing him as a force behind Poland’s development and its place in global history.
In a separate development, the Sejm adopted a resolution on March 9 defending John Paul II’s good name. The Sejm condemned the media and a broader campaign based largely on communist-era materials, portraying the pope as a central historical figure in Poland. The resolution followed the broadcast of the program “Franciszkańska 3,” which addressed allegations surrounding cases of pedophilia within the church and highlighted comments from various sources about how the church responded at the time. The report and subsequent discussion prompted reflections on the pope’s legacy and the handling of sensitive issues within the church’s history.
For further context, observers noted that the Sejm resolution framed John Paul II as a defining element of national identity. The discussions reflected ongoing debates about history, memory, and the pope’s place in Poland and worldwide.
Source: wPolityce