William H. Frist: “I wish to comment on the passing of Pope John Paul II last week. A number of us had the opportunity to represent the…”

“I wish to comment on the passing of Pope John Paul II last week. A number of us had the opportunity to represent the United States, represent this body in Rome. It was a moving experience, an emotional experience, and one that I briefly want to share. The passing of Pope John Paul II was moving. It was a historical event that riveted the world. Millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike were touched and influenced by this great man. He leaves an extraordinary legacy that all of us have reflected upon over the last week. In his 26-year reign as head of the Catholic Church, the third longest pontificate in history, Pope John Paul was seen by more people than any other individual in history. He influenced more lives than many kings and presidents before him. Together with Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, Pope John Paul helped vanquish the Soviet Union, expose the brutality of communism, and free hundreds of millions of people around the world. He, indeed, was a hinge of history, one of the great leaders of the 20th century who helped make our world over on the pillars of faith, freedom, liberty, and human dignity. As I mentioned, I had the real privilege of leading a delegation of 14 Senators to pay tribute to this great leader. We left last Wednesday. As we soared over the Atlantic, all of us shared our thoughts and stories and reflected upon the Pope's remarkable life.…”