John Paul II Celebrates 25 Years as Pope

V A T I C A N   C I T Y, Oct. 14 -- Over his 25-year reign, Pope John Paul II has likely accomplished more than his billion followers could possibly recall.

The 83-year-old pontiff has canonized more saints than all his predecessors combined. He's traveled to every corner of the globe. He survived four bullet wounds during an attempt on his life. And many say he played a key role in the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe.

Today, even as he battles Parkinson's disease, John Paul insists on personally reaching out to his billions of followers, especially his youngest disciples.

"I must recognize that the response of the young has been truly encouraging," the pope said Sunday in a hushed voice, pausing several times to catch his breath. "Today, I want to thank them for having always been close to me during these years, and I want them to know that I continue to count on them."

The frail pope made his remarks as he gave thanks for his 25-year pontificate from his window overlooking St. Peter's Square. His appearance came one day after the Vatican again denied reports he was undergoing kidney dialysis.

The pope suffers from Parkinson's disease and has hip and knee ailments that make it nearly impossible for him to walk. He has appeared weaker in recent months and often has been unable to complete his speeches.

As he addressed followers who had gathered in the square, John Paul referred to the Mass he would celebrate Thursday to mark the 25th anniversary of his Oct. 16, 1978, election. The pope said he has thought of his first Sunday appearance at St. Peter's more often as the anniversary nears.

Important World Leader

Since the start of his pontificate, the first non-Italian pope in nearly five centuries traveled to more than 100 countries campaigning for human rights and freedom.

As he traveled across the world, John Paul spoke eight different languages to his diverse followers.

Father Thomas J. Reese, a Jesuit scholar and author of Inside the Vatican, says John Paul's reign touched even non-Catholics.