He provided great leadership to the Church in a period of confusion after Vatican II when everyone was claiming the authority of “spirit of the council”.
He has sailed the ship in the right direction. Just because some went overboard or banged against the sides of the ship because they were heading in their own direction is not his fault.
He was a loving father who loved all no matter what. Yes, he was disappointed the actions of many. But he still loved them.
Pope John Paul II is a genius, even though he may not have known it.
IMHO, his proclamation to Catholics was “who will stand with me”. Many responded. Far more effective than immediately separating the sheep from the goats. Now with the Church post-John Paul II, Pope Benedict if he choose to be, can be a more effective disciplinarian. The rift that was more possible pre-John Paul II, is less likely post-John Paul II.
