The Passing of the Papacy

On Saturday, April 2, 2005, much of the world mourned the passing of Pope John Paul II.

After several months of declining health related to Parkinson's disease, the pontiff died quietly in his Vatican apartment surrounded by friends and the prayers murmured by thousands of devoted followers, gathered just outside in St. Peter's Square.

Pope John Paul II, formerly known as Karol Wojtyla, was the first non-Italian pope in 450 years and served as the first Slavic pope in history.

But John Paul II not only stood out as a pope because of his Polish heritage. His pro-active leadership inspired both Catholics and non-Catholics worldwide.

Unlike his predecessors, Pope John Paul II traveled to more than 120 countries and used the media to deliver his messages to the masses. He showed that the pope should not only serve the role as a spiritual leader, but also as a world diplomat.

"Quite apart from his role as a spiritual guide to more than a billion men, women and children," United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan said in his tribute, "he was a tireless advocate of peace, a true pioneer in interfaith dialogue and a strong force for critical self-evaluation by the Church itself."

As the masses reflect on John Paul II's legacy, they are at the same time curious as to who will be chosen as the Church's new leader.

Within the next couple of weeks, Catholic Cardinals from around the world will gather at the Vatican and elect his successor.

This centuries-old ritual following the pope's death is called the conclave.

For this week's lesson, you'll learn about Pope John Paul II's life and how it influenced others. You'll also get a preview of what to expect when the conclave convenes.

The Life of Karol Wojtyla

Begin your study of the pope's life at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, where you'll find the photo exhibit called Celebrating the Legacy: Pope John Paul II.

Click on Gallery and read the introduction. Then, click on 1 to start browsing the Dignity gallery, where you'll get a glimpse into how he served as the Church's leader.

Also, browse the Youth, Prayer, Liturgy, Travels, World Leaders, and Vatican galleries.

In what ways did he reach out to people in different cultures and age groups? Why would such an active role as Church leader influence the Catholic communities he visited, and the religion's strength worldwide? For what reasons would the pope wish to meet with other world leaders?

Now let's visit with CNN to uncover more insights into the life of Pope John Paul II.

First, read the overview that explains how he was such An influential pontiff.

Then, start digging deeper into his personal history, including The early years and The priesthood years.

How did the events during his childhood through his twenties influence Karol's life? In what ways did his passion for poetry and theater help him in his roles as priest and pope? How did Karol's beliefs, actions, and character shape his success as a priest?

Next, let's take an in-depth look into and The papal years and The pope's legacy.

Why was it an important mission for Pope John Paul II to clarify the Catholic Church's stand on critical issues? Why did the Church lose some followers and gain others during his papacy?

Why was his outspoken support of human rights and individual liberty key to the pope's popularity, the downfall of Communism, and the growing strength of Catholicism? Why exactly was the pope critical of American culture? What criticisms from others did the pontiff endure? On what types of issues did he fuel division among Catholics?

Choosing the Next Pope

With the closing of Pope John Paul II's casket comes the opening for new blood to lead the Catholic Church.

This process is centuries-old and follows certain rules.

To uncover the mystery of this ritual, let's go to the HowStuffWorks site to find out How the Papacy Works.

Read the introduction, then learn more about Papal Authority and what happens after The Passing of a Pontiff. Why is Jesus' disciple Peter considered to have been the first pope? What is the significance of the Ring of the Fisherman?

Now, let's look at the process of Electing the Next Pope. Why does a pope have the authority to edit the election guidelines? Why do you think the election process is such a complex and thoroughly detailed ritual?

So what will The Next Pope have to do to officially become the pope? What will be some of the tasks he will be responsibile for?

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Newspaper Activities

In current issues of The Salt Lake Tribune, follow the pope's funeral rites, along with local and global reactions to Pope John Paul II's death. About how many people are gathering in St. Peter's Square? Will anyone be giving a eulogy during the funeral? In what ways are people mourning John Paul's death? Also look for articles that address the upcoming conclave. Which candidate could be chosen as the next pope? In what ways might the Catholic Church change under the new pope's leadership? How long did the conclave take to choose the next pope? After the election, keep watching for pope-related news -- is the new pope doing anything similar or different compared to John Paul II?