‘Little popes’ celebrate canonization of 2 popes

By: Nestor Corrales - 11 years ago

Filipinos on Sunday, April 27, joined millions of Catholics around the world to celebrate the canonization of Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII. Children donned papal costumes in Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City. Video by INQUIRER.net’s Nestor Corrales and edited by INQUIRER.net’s Hotaru Niitsu

MANILA, Philippines—In celebration of the Catholic Church’s double canonization of Pope John XXII and Pope John Paul II in Vatican City on Sunday, “little popes” paraded in Eastwood City in Quezon City.

Dozens of “little popes” dressed in white robes and skullcap were accompanied by a battalion of “Swiss Guards” as they went upstage happily waving to the crowd.

According to Rev. Father Victor Esparlay, who celebrated the Mass, said Pope John Paul II was particularly well loved by the youth.

“He opened his arms to embrace the world. This Pope embraced people especially the marginalized and the oppressed. He embraced people of other religions and dialogue with leaders of other religions. He embraced the leaders of nations and pointed out to them what’s right and just. And most importantly, he embraced the youth of the world. And no wonder, Pope John Paul II, remains a well-loved Pope,” Esparlay said.

In January1995 Pope John Paul II visited the Philippines during the World Youth Day celebrations and drew the biggest crowd in his papacy.