Passing of Pope John Paul II

i'm sure most of you would have heard from CNA, newspapers, radio or perhaps from your family or friends that Pope John Paul II has passed away.

Being a roman catholic,
Pope is the highest figure in the catholic church,
a sherperd that guides his flocks (us),
i had a close encounter with the late Pope,
in Year 2001 i went to Italy together with my mom,
our first stop amongst the many in the bid to tour Italy in 15 days,
was none other than Rome,
St Peter's Basillica,
in which the late Pope celebrates mass and resides in,
the third window in which he will appear if he doesn't appear for mass

I was amongst the thousands in the crowd attending Latin Mass in St Peter's Basillica.
Yes... a really peaceful feeling,
the presence of God was so strong,
very one was so deep in prayer.

when the mass ended, the late Pope blessed us with the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. *perhaps that was the words that i understood only throughout the mass. But the way he speaks, makes me feel as if i'm close to God, someone who is christ-like,
i managed to get an italian couple to translate some parts of his sermons,simple yet powerful words.. altho u don't hear it yourself, it seemed very real.

-You do not need to see to believe. I believe that there is a God and that He will bring us eternal life.

When the mass ended, he got onto his "Pope Mobile" his form of transportation to circle around St Peter Basillica, to see us. I was so near to him, except being seperated by the barricade. yes.. i'm lucky to have seen him at least once in person, i've managed to hear him live for one and i'm thankful for all his prayers for the sick, dying, peace in the world, humanity, charity works.

He has gone, gone to be with the heavenly Father, when he is enjoying the eternal richness in Heaven. Praise the Lord!

Thank you Pope John Paul II for all you have done! We will all miss you.