What did Pope John Paul II accomplish?

But, beyond the numbers, the leadership of the Polish Pope guided the Catholic Church through many rising challenges in modern times. FIGHT FOR FREEDOM. "Don't be afraid!" One of the greatest challenges was the Cold War, and the two blocs that pitted the world against each other. read more

Pope John Paul II declared 482 saints during his papacy -- more than the number declared by all the popes in the last 500 years combined. Pope John Paul II beatified 1,338 people during his papacy. Beatification is the last step before sainthood. read more

John Paul II referred to Jews as "older brothers," and became the first Pope to step inside a synagogue since the times of Jesus. He also prayed before the Western Wall. He was also the first Pope to kiss a Koran, and step inside a mosque. read more