The End and the Beginning

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In the spring of 2005, as the world watched the apostolic palace in Rome, the pontificate of Pope John Paul II was recognized as one of the most significant in Christian history. Esteemed author and NBC Vatican analyst George Weigel presents a long-awaited sequel to his international bestseller, offering a dramatic account of the Pope’s battle against communism, enriched by newly disclosed information. This narrative concludes Weigel’s comprehensive portrayal of a figure who profoundly influenced the Catholic Church and world history. Elected pope in 1978, Karol Wojtyła rapidly sparked a revolution of conscience in Poland, ultimately contributing to the fall of European communism and the Soviet Union. However, few were aware of the extensive, covert operations waged against him by the KGB, Polish Secret Police, and East German Stasi. With unprecedented access to Soviet-era documents, Weigel details John Paul’s fight against these oppressive forces. Additionally, he explores the Pope’s challenging final years, marked by illness and revelations of corruption within the Church. Weigel’s insightful biography culminates in a passionate assessment of a man whose life exemplified hope and commitment to Christian ideals.