"Pope John Paul II was a pope of human freedom, as a central figure in liberating Eastern Europe from the domination of Communism. He was the philosopher-pope, who helped us appreciate the value of reason in relation to faith through his encyclical Fides et Ratio. He was the great defender of life. His encyclical Evangelium Vitae argues for the defense of human life from the moment of conception until natural death. He challenged the Church and the world to find happiness in search of the transcendent values of truth and love. He emphasized the transformation of culture with the power of the human spirit grounded in the power of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

"South Carolinians will never forget the Holy Father's pilgrimage to the Palmetto state in 1987. During his visit the Pope praised ecumenical programs, saying that despite lack of full agreement, it is no small achievement of the ecumenical movement that after centuries of mistrust, we humbly and sincerely recognize in each other's communities the presence and fruitfulness of Christ's gifts at work. His visit touched the lives of so many people in our state.

"The example of his holy life spoke even louder than the powerful messages delivered throughout his papacy to people inside and outside the Catholic household. His legacy will remain for centuries. We in the Catholic Diocese of Charleston mourn his loss and ask prayers for him by all people of good will."