We have got used to the fact that Popes visit Poland. Benedict XVI follows in the footsteps of John Paul II, he is of the latter’s school, so to speak. We are looking forward to this visit. »»
Too my mind the pilgrimage of Benedict XVI is first of all a manifestation of a great love and respect for John Paul II. Relations between Cardinal Ratzinger and John Paul II relied always not only on partnership, but on friendship. »»
I expect that the pilgrimage of Benedict XVI will result in a spiritual renewal, which of necessity has to take place in the Church on an ongoing basis. This renewal is necessary for us to face all that is at variance with the Gospel in today’s world. »»
I am certain that Benedict XVI’s visit to Poland will be a very good meeting of the successor of Peter and the successor of John Paul II with the Church in Poland. The pilgrimage has already attracted great interest. I hope that this will be a very theological visit, which will strengthen us theologically and ecclesially. »»
Holy Father Benedict XVI will be received all over Poland as someone who was as a matter of course close to John Paul II and St. Peter. Our awaiting the Pope is a manifestation of our faith. »»
The programme of the visit of Benedict XVI to Poland is to a great extent contained in its motto: "Be strong in the Faith." I expect that this pilgrimage will be precisely as its theme. »»
Benedict XVI is arriving with his first foreign pilgrimage in the home country of his predecessor, the Polish Pope. This fact alone is of great significance. »»
Cardinal Zenon Grocholewski: The Pope will want to pay his homage to the Son of Polish soil, John Paul II, and at the same time his respect for the worldwide contribution of the Church in Poland. »»
Fr. Stanisław Wilk: Benedict XVI may be sure of a warm and generous welcome during the visit to our country. The visit will usher in a new phase in the history of the Polish Church. »»
Deputy Prime Minister Ludwik Dorn: I believe that this visit will strengthen our conviction that this relation was not only contingent on the person of the Polish Pope, whom we often bring to mind and whose departure we have experienced so profoundly. »»
