Rome, Italy – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3), while on a planned trip to Italy, issued the following statement on the death of Pope John Paul II today.

“The death of Pope John Paul II is an immense loss to our world community – a world in such need for his gospel message of justice, compassion and peace. In his 26 years as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, the Pope awakened the entire world to the dignity and responsibility of defending human rights; served as a dynamic pastoral presence to people of all faiths in the world; and stood as a towering figure at the moral center of modern life. There is little doubt that John Paul II has been one of the most significant figures of the 20th century.

“I join with fellow Catholics and all people of faith in prayer on this sorrowful day.”