John Paul II in America: Uniting a Continent

Offering an excellent history of Pope John Paul II's (1920-2005) extensive outreach to Central and South America, Haiti, and Cuba, as well as the United States, director David Naglieri's John Paul II in America makes a strong case that the late Bishop of Rome was heroic in his tireless championing of human rights, the politically oppressed, and those brutalized by ceaseless civil wars. The pattern and tone of John Paul II's many speeches become evident when witnessing back-to-back archival footage of his visits to El Salvador, Chile, Brazil, Mexico, Nicaragua, and more, where he firmly states his beliefs that the Church supports freedom, dignity, and a release from poverty and fear. Various experts on John Paul II's accomplishments argue persuasively that his inspiration and affirmation of each individual's value helped spark the changes that helped bring about the end of sundry dictatorships. The pope's contribution to the fall of the Soviet Union and its grip on Eastern Europe is also examined, as well as his frequent criticisms of what he called “a culture of death” (referring to everything from abortion to callous acts of war and genocide) in contemporary civilization. Presented in both English and Spanish versions, this fine profile encourages a fresh look at John Paul II's legacy. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)