Review article
https://doi.org/10.34075/sb.66.1.4
ST. POPE JOHN PAUL II: A VISIONARY LEADER AND AN EXEMPLARY RELIGIOUS EDUCATOR. CROATIAN DIGITAL MEDIA COVERAGE AND PRESENTATION
Angelina Gašpar
orcid.org/0000-0002-4472-8648
; Catholic Faculty of Theology, University of Split
Jadranka Garmaz
; Catholic Faculty of Theology, University of Split
Abstract
St. Pope John Paul II’s leadership and statecraft reflected his visionary approach and diplomatic prowess. His influence transcended religious boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage as he tirelessly worked towards a more inclusive, compassionate, and just world. He was credible due to the strength of his character, charisma, moral authority, and unwavering commitment to his convictions. As an excellent religious educator, he put much effort into faith formation, compassionate catechesis, and human dignity promotion. Through his teachings and personal example, he inspired people to deepen their faith, engage with the world, and live out the Gospel values of love, mercy, and justice. His impact on Catholic education continues to resonate, shaping the spiritual lives of the faithful and fostering a more informed, tolerant, and faithful Church. As a spiritual leader, he addressed pressing global challenges, consistently condemning violence, terrorism, and war and advocating peaceful solutions and dialogue between nations. His firm opposition to the death penalty and his commitment to promoting the sanctity of life from conception to natural death established him as a champion for human dignity and justice. Acknowledging his weaknesses and seeking forgiveness for the Church’s past mistakes, he modelled servant leadership by dedicating himself to the spiritual and material well-being of others, particularly the marginalized and disadvantaged. His genuine care for people and willingness to serve as a shepherd and guide earned him the respect and admiration of millions around the world. This article explores the coverage of St. Pope John Paul II in Croatian digital media and whether they portray him in such a positive light. We used qualitative content and comparative analyses to uncover nuances, emotions, recurring patterns, and differences in selected religious and secular Croatian digital media writing about St. Pope John Paul II.
Keywords
St. Pope John Paul II; leadership; religious educator; Croatian digital media; content analysis
Hrčak ID:
351471
URI
Publication date:
30.9.2026.
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