Frank Klees was the first Member of Parliament who initiated a plan to establish the 2nd of April as John Paul II Day. His idea was met with great approval of all members of Parliament. This information was given to all in the Biuletyn/Newsletter in June 2009.

This year Tony Ruprecht once more tabled his private member's bill, An Act to declare John Paul II Day in the Province of Ontario on 2nd of April. Tony Ruprecht and many other members of Parliament gathered on May 18th to commemorate 90th Birthday of the late Pope John Paul II. It was a gathering reminiscing His greatness throughout His 27 years of the Great Pontificate.

I wish to quote Tim Hudak, MPP and Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader who in his Statement wrote:

On behalf of the Ontario PC Party - I want to join you in celebrating the life of one of the great leaders of modern times - HIS HOLINESS POPE JOHN PAUL II.

During his more than quarter century a pontiff, Pope John Paul II provided resolute, compassionate and courageous leadership for Catholics during a time of tremendous challenge and change.

His accomplishments as a theologian and defender of Christian values and principles have secured his place as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of all time.

Pope John Paul II should be commended for his tireless efforts to build bridges of tolerance and understanding between the Catholic Church and other religions worldwide.

As a steadfast defender of freedom and peace, People John Paul II also played and inspirational role in the liberation of Eastern Europe from Communist tyranny.

As it was for millions of other families worldwide, the fall of communism was a special occasion in my family. My own grandparents were Catholic immigrants from then - Czechoslovakia who came to Canada to ensure that their children and grandchildren would grow up knowing freedom.

Pope John Paul's dream - was our dream. A world unified in liberty and peace.

Please accept my warmest regards as we celebrate the life and accomplishments of this truly remarkable man.

Among the invited guest were: John Yakabuski, MPP for Renfrew - Nipissing - Pembroke, Tony Ruprecht, MPP for Davenport, Muriel Alvares from the Office of the Minister, and many others.

The Friends of John Paul II Foundation of Toronto represented Danuta Warszawski. Once more all members of the Toronto Chapter are very anxious to see this Bill passed as soon as possible. Polish Combatants' Association, Branch No. 20 Toronto was represented by Adam Kreutzer - the president. Invited guests were: Chris Korwin - Kuczynski, Zygmunt Warszawski, Dr. Russ, Margaret Maye with her son and numerous guests for this very special Birthday of the incredible individual.

Margaret Maye paid her tribute the way she knows best with her beautiful mezzo soprano voice by singing on this special occasion with a carefully chosen hymn.

Danuta Warszawski was introduced by Tony Ruprecht and was asked to say a few wards not only about the John Paul II Foundation but also about The Friends of John Paul II Foundation of Toronto and her many personal meetings with the Great Pope John Paul II. President of the Chapter did not forget to extend the special invitation to all in attendance to become members and help us in accomplishing and propagating the aims of the Foundation that were set up by our beloved Pope John Paul II. The funds from our Chapter go for educating the youth from Middle and Eastern Europe.

Chris Korwin Kuczynski spoke about meeting Pope John Paul II and of treasuring the pictures and memories that will live forever in his family.

Tony Ruprecht proudly displayed on the easel his big picture

with Pope John Paul II from His first visit to Toronto and spoke fondly of the Man who was instrumental in all the changes that took place in Europe.

Now, we all hope and pray that soon the 2nd of April will be JOHN PAUL II DAY IN THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO, so help us God.

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