Villagomez mourns loss of pope

Vice Speaker Timothy P. Villagomez joins the rest of the CNMI Catholic community in mourning the loss of Pope John Paul II, who died early Sunday morning.

“We feel a deep sense of loss for a great man who has done so much for millions of people all over the world during the past 25 years,” said Villagomez.

Villagomez highlighted the pope’s significant role in helping bring down the scourge of communism in Eastern Europe, saying the pope gave hope to millions of oppressed people during the Cold War. The pope was particularly instrumental in bringing about the collapse of communism in Poland, the pope’s homeland.

“While we lament his passing, we also reflect on his life and celebrate his remarkable influence on people all over the world during his lifetime,” said Villagomez.

Villagomez, a Catholic, believes that Pope John Paul II will forever be remembered for his deep sense of humanity and profound sense of compassion for ordinary people struggling through poverty and human rights abuses.

The Vice Speaker believes that the pope’s greatest asset was the power of faith and prayer, which he believes everyone would do well to emulate and practice in their own lives, particularly during times of sorrow and grief.

House Speaker Benigno R. Fitial, also a strong believer in the Catholic faith, noted the passing of the Holy Father in an e-mail message sent to friends and associates.

“The Speaker and I, along with the rest of our House of Representatives, join our local Catholic community in mourning the loss of our beloved Pope John Paul the Second. We pray for him and reflect on his character and achievements,” said Villagomez.