The twenty-fifth anniversary of the visit of Pope John Paul II to Great Britain

This was the thirteenth Pastoral Visit made by Pope John Paul II since his election as Pope
in October 1978 and yet it was a papal visit that nearly didn't happen.
The assassination attempt on the Pope in May 1981 left the visit in doubt
and the conflict between England and Argentina over the Falkland Islands almost caused its cancellation.
However, a diplomatic solution was found whereby the Pope would visit Argentina as well.
This he did from 10th - 13th June.

Perhaps you attended the Mass at Wembley Stadium 29th May,
or the National Youth Rally at Ninian Park in Cardiff on 2nd June. Or perhaps you were
one of the thousands who lined the route of his popemobile.

But the Pope was also greeted at four events within the Southwark diocese and stayed overnight
from 28th until 30th May at the Apostolic Nunciature overlooking Wimbledon Common.

These pages focus on the Southwark events.

The theme of the Pope's visit was the Seven Sacraments.

Here is his itinerary for the initial (southern) part of his visit.

Friday, 28^th May 1982

Pope John Paul II lands at Gatwick Airport

Mass and Baptism at Westminster Cathedral

Meeting with the Queen at Buckingham Palace

Anointing of the Sick at St George’s Cathedral, Southwark

Meeting with the Bishops of England and Wales, Westminster

Overnight at the Apostolic Nunciature, Wimbledon
(recent photograph)

Saturday, 29^th May 1982

Meeting with Religious at Digby Stuart College, Roehampton

“Celebration of Faith” at Canterbury Cathedral

Conversation with Church Leaders at Canterbury

Mass at Wembley Stadium

Overnight at the Apostolic Nunciature, Wimbledon
(recent photograph)

Sunday, 30^th May 1982

Meeting with Polish Community at Crystal Palace

The text of all Pope John Paul II's homilies and addresses can be found on the Vatican website

A report of the whole visit can be found on the Catholic Church in England and Wales website

New website marking the 25th Anniversary of the Papal Visit produced by the Bishops' Conference
 

Return to Southwark Website Homepage