Description

Pope Saint John Paul II (1920–2005), serving from 1978 to 2005, was one of the most widely traveled world leaders, visiting 129 countries. Emphasizing the universal call to holiness, he beatified 1,340 and canonized 483 saints. He ranks as the second longest-serving pope in modern history.

Mother Teresa (1910–1997), known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950, growing to 4,500 nuns active in 133 countries by 2012. She received accolades, including the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize, and was canonized on September 4, 2016.

Their significant meeting occurred on Feb. 3, 1986, during the Pope's visit to India. In Kolkata, he visited Mother Teresa's refuge, Nirmal Hriday, blessing patients and assisting in their care. This marked the beginning of a lasting friendship.