Pilgrims and happy Roman Catholics were pouring into Rome last week for the canonization of two popes. And many among them were Poles celebrating the sainthood of their beloved Pope John Paul II (born Karol Wojtyla in communist-era Poland). Here in Italy, at Padova’s Basilica of Saint Anthony, a new painting of JPII has already joined the ranks of centuries of inspirational Christians who became saints. Being here as they put up a painting that travelers will stand before for generations to come is a reminder that we are part of history.

If you can’t see the video below, watch it on YouTube.