According to the Associated Press, “The pope on Friday signed off on the miracle needed to beatify Pope John Paul II and set May 1 as the date to honor one of the most beloved popes of all times as a model of saintliness for the church. Pope Benedict XVI said in a decree that a French nun’s recovery from Parkinson’s disease was miraculous, the last step needed for beatification. A second miracle is needed for the Polish-born John Paul to be made a saint. The May 1 ceremony, which Benedict himself will celebrate, is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to Rome”
So if you’re planning to be in Rome on May 1 and haven’t booked your accommodations, do so ASAP or if you’re interested in honoring Pope John Paul II with a pilgrimage to the Vatican, start planning now. We will have more tips and information as the date draws closer.