In a modest but moving service our parish Priest pointed out that Jesus will not 'open the door' to heaven for Pope John Paul II, because he is with us, on this side of the door.

On the Sunday after Easter, when the story of Thomas is commonly told throughout Catholic churches the meaning of the Pope's suffering in his final days and weeks is clear. Jesus invited Thomas to feel his wounds - sharing his humanity - and so making faith possible for Thomas. The Pope has done that for many, many people, in many, many ways.