Archbishop Józef Życiński

When Benedict XVI began his journey to Poland we referred to him as "our Pope" on account of the community of faith. Four days later we can refer to him as "our Pope" on the strength of an emotional bond that has developed – said Archbishop Józef Życiński. In his opinion the words of Benedict XVI addressed to Poles are a conspicuous continuation and translation into present-day reality of the teaching of John Paul II.

"Pope Benedict tells us to look up to heaven, to Christ, and that we not mark anything that might obstruct Him from our view, any quotidian issues, transient matters. He tells us that we must be witnesses to hope and to share the treasure of faith with other nations of Europe and the world" – observed Archbishop Życiński. "That is why we must not focus on differences but on what unites us" – added the Archbishop.

According to the Metropolitan of Lublin, Benedict XVI points to a concrete example of how we should share – we need to follow the example set by John Paul II and the saints who were born on Polish soil. "This is a tall order, so to speak, but Jesus himself was demanding" – he observed.

Archbishop Życiński believes that Pope Benedict XVI is visibly moved by the meetings with Poles. "This can be observed in the way he is looking at the crowds. During the Eucharist he was given glasses to read – he did not notice them at all as he was regarding the people around" - added the Archbishop.