Watch The Secrets of Saint John Paul

The Secrets of Saint John Paul is a PBS documentary series that explores the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in modern Catholicism: Pope John Paul II. The series goes beyond the surface-level knowledge many of us have of the late pontiff and delves into his personal history, beliefs, and key moments in his papacy.

The first episode, titled "Childhood and Youth," explores John Paul II's early life, beginning with his birth in Wadowice, Poland, in 1920. The filmmakers use archival footage and interviews with family members and acquaintances to paint a picture of the young Karol Wojtyla. We learn about his love of the outdoors, his passion for sports, and his love for theater, which would later grow into a deep appreciation for the arts.

The second episode, "The Years of Occupation," focuses on John Paul II's experiences during World War II. Poland was occupied by Nazi Germany during this time, and the young Wojtyla had to navigate the challenges of living under an oppressive regime. The documentary looks at how his experiences during this time shaped his outlook on the world and influenced his beliefs about the role of religion in society.

The third episode, "The Making of a Pope," follows John Paul II's ascent to the papacy in 1978. By this point, he had made a name for himself as an intellectual and spiritual leader, and the series explores the factors that led to his election as pope. We learn about his early years as a priest, his role in the Second Vatican Council, and his efforts to bring about greater unity within the Catholic Church.

The fourth episode, "The Pope of the People," looks at some of the key moments of John Paul II's papacy, including his visits to various countries around the world and his efforts to promote interfaith dialogue. The documentary examines his relationship with important world leaders such as Ronald Reagan, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Fidel Castro, and explores how his message of hope and unity resonated with people beyond the Catholic Church.

The final episode, "The Legacy," reflects on the impact of John Paul II's papacy and his lasting influence on the modern Catholic Church. We hear from experts in theology, history, and journalism on the pope's contributions to the Catholic Church and the world, from his efforts to promote social justice to his role in bringing about the end of Communism in Eastern Europe. The series ends on a note of reflection, reminding us of the importance of spirituality and faith in our modern world.

Overall, The Secrets of Saint John Paul is a fascinating exploration of the life and legacy of one of the most important figures in modern Catholicism. The series offers a deeper understanding of John Paul II's beliefs and motivations, and how they shaped his impact on the world around him. With its blend of archival footage, interviews, and expert analysis, the series is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of religion, history, and culture.