Teachings of John Paul II and their role in the process of European integration

John Paul II preached the need for interpersonal solidarity and integration. He called for the abandonment of mutual distrust, rivalry and hatred and for building a civilisation based on peaceful international relations. He showed Europeans a vision of unity in diversity, loyalty to Christian roots, in freedom and truth. According to the Holy Father, the history of Europe is linked to Christianity. Although European culture stems from the Greco-Roman civilisation and was influenced by Judaism and Islam, its main influence was Christianity, which has defined the specific character of the continent for two thousand years. This heritage must not be denied today. The transcendental dimension of every human being cannot be ignored either. Through his teaching and commitment, John Paul II became one of the main architects of European integration.