St. John 1, Pope and Martyr - More recent popes

Today's liturgy allows for the optional memorial of St. John I, who was elected Pope in 523.

The Arian King Theodoric sent him as his ambassor to Emperor Justin in Constantinople. On his return, he was captured by the king, who was displeased at the outcome of the embassy. He was cast into prison at Ravenna, where he died of ill treatment a few days later.

As pope he was responsible for introducing the Alexandrian computation of the date of Easter; it came to be accepted throughout the West.

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The Servant of God Pope John Paul II


On this day in 1920 was born the Servant of God Karol Wojtyla, whom we knew as Pope John Paul II (October 16, 1978-April 2, 2005).


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PRAYER FOR THE POPE

On this day when we remember two predecessor popes of his, let us offer up prayer and supplication for our current Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI.

V. Let us pray for our Pontiff, Pope Benedict.

R. May the Lord preserve him, and give him life, and bless him upon earth, and deliver him not to the will of his enemies.

Our Father. Hail Mary.

Let us pray.

O God, Shepherd and Ruler of all Thy faithful people, look mercifully upon Thy servant Benedict, whom Thou hast chosen as shepherd to preside over Thy Church. Grant him, we beseech Thee, that by his word and example, he may edify those over whom he hath charge, so that together with the flock committed to him, he may attain everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.