Pope John Paul II Anniversary: John Hancock Donates $1 Million To Catholic Academy


In honor of the anniversary of the Blessed Pope John Paul II’s death, John Hancock Financial has pledged $1 million over the next five years to the Campaign for Catholic Schools.

Jim Boyle, president of John Hancock Financial, said:

“As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, I’m proud we’re able to provide this meaningful gift to benefit the next generation of leaders in our city. This gift, along with additional civic engagement activities, underscores our deep commitment to ensuring the educational success of Boston’s students and supports Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy in carrying out its important work.”

The money will be used to support literacy programs for both English and non-English speakers.

Cardinal Sean O’Malley of the Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy said:

“We are grateful to John Hancock Financial for this generous gift given in support of Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy. This significant contribution will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the students attending the Academy and, through the students’ success and achievements, have a positive impact on their families and the local community. We are blessed by John Hancock’s commitment to the neighborhoods of the City of Boston.”

Pope John Paul II was born Karol Josef Wojtla in Wadowice, Poland, on May 18th 1920. He passed away seven years ago today on April 2nd, 2005. He was made Pope of the Catholic Church on October 16th 1978 and served until his death.

Pope John Paul II was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI on May 1, 2011. The beatification of Pope John Paul brings him one step closer to sainthood. John Paul is now referred to as “blessed” as one miracle has been confirmed in his name. Another miracle will have to be confirmed before he can become a saint.

He was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI on May 1, 2011, in rites witnessed by millions of Catholics worldwide. Many members of the clergy at the Vatican, including Pope Benedict XVI, have began referring to him as “John Paul the Great,“ the fourth Pope to be so acclaimed.

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