1. Overview
The Saint John Paul II National Shrine is a prominent religious and cultural destination located in Northeast Washington, DC. It offers visitors a profound insight into the life and legacy of Saint John Paul II. The shrine features interactive exhibits, personal memorabilia, and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
2. Visiting the Shrine
The Shrine is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is advisable to check the official website for specific holiday and exhibit hours. Admission is by donation, with suggested contributions of $5 for individuals, $15 for families, and $4 for seniors and students.
3. About Saint John Paul II
Born Karol Józef Wojtyla on May 18, 1920, in Wadowice, Poland, John Paul II served as Pope from 1978 until 2005. He was ordained a priest in 1946, became the bishop of Ombi in 1958, and the archbishop of Krakow in 1964. Elevated to cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1967, he became the first non-Italian pope in over 400 years. A passionate advocate for human rights, he used his papacy to foster significant political changes. In April 2014, he was canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
4. Permanent Exhibit
A Gift of Love: The Life of St. John Paul II is the shrine’s main exhibit, featuring nine galleries designed by Gallagher and Associates. This exhibit chronicles the significant events of John Paul II’s life, starting with an introductory film about his early years in Nazi-occupied Poland. It explores his journey to the papacy in 1978, highlighting key themes and milestones of his 26-year pontificate. Visitors can engage with various artifacts, texts, images, and interactive displays that reflect the Pope’s dedication to his faith and advocacy for human dignity.
The shrine is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization with nearly two million global members. The Knights initiated renovations to transform the site into a vibrant center for worship, culture, and religious education, maintaining the legacy of the previous John Paul II Cultural Center.
5. Location and Contact Information
Address:
3900 Harewood Road, NE
Washington, DC
Phone: 202-635-5400
The nearest Metro station is Brookland/CUA, making it convenient for visitors to access the shrine.
The Saint John Paul II National Shrine provides a unique opportunity for reflection and learning about one of the most influential figures in modern history. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the extensive resources available at this cultural and religious landmark.
