Walking in the Footsteps of Our Beloved Saint

by: Nick Nelson, WCI Leader Couple, NE

     Megan was first introduced to the Theology of the Body when she was given a copy of Christopher West’s book, Good News About Sex & Marriage. This little purple book made a lasting impact. She dove head first into the text of the Wednesday audiences, admitting that she wasn’t quite equipped for Pope John Paul II’s own words just yet. After spending more time studying work from West, Jason and Crystalina Evert, and Brian Butler, she was hooked. Before the Theology of the Body, she described seeing the faith in only black and white. As she learned more, our incarnational, sacramental faith came alive in splendid technicolor.

     I feel so blessed that Megan has shared her love of the Theology of the Body with me. Together we have taught TOB to high school students both at our parish here in Nebraska and when I was serving on active duty in the Army. Since 2014, we have been a teaching couple with the Couple to Couple League sharing with engaged couples about our faith and Natural Family Planning. Our love for John Paul the Great has only grown since we began living The Rule with our married couple group at the beginning of this year. 

     While living in Germany we made a pilgrimage to Krakow in May 2015. It was truly incredible to walk in the footsteps of this wonderful saint. We visited places like Wawel Castle and Cathedral, Shrine of the Divine Mercy, and the Bishop’s Palace. The Polish people’s love for their Pope was palpable.  

     Perhaps my not so secret, favorite part of our devotion to the beloved Saint John Paul II comes every year on October 22. My mother is second generation Polish-American, all four of her grandparents immigrated from Poland in the early 1900s. I grew up with some delicious Polish food for Wigilia every Christmas Eve, but our Saint John Paul II feast day spread is a whole new level. Pierogi are a must but of course we also enjoy kielbasa, kapusta, and the Pope’s favorite dessert, which is now known In many parts of Poland as, Kremówka Papieska. Last year Megan read that his favorite treat while in America was Yoo-hoo! so it’s a staple now too! 

     Our love for Saint John Paul II continues to grow the more we live and share our faith. His teachings in the Theology of the Body have opened our eyes to the beauty of God’s plan for love, marriage, and the human person. Every October 22, as we celebrate his feast day, we feel deep gratitude for the joy and hope he brought to the Church. He reminds us that holiness is found in the small, daily acts of love and faith—and his example continues to inspire us to live with courage, joy, and hearts open to God’s grace.