“The state is truly sovereign
(…)if it allows the nation to realize its
proper subjectivity and its proper identity”
The idea of establishing the Foundation was born in the heart of John Paul II at the beginning of his pontificate. The “Pope from a faraway country” felt the need to build a lasting bridge of cooperation between Central and Eastern Europe and the West, based on theology, history, and culture.
Particularly important in this rapprochement was the openness to the numerous pilgrims who came to the Eternal City, mainly from Poland, and ensuring their pastoral care. Therefore, the need arose to create an institution to coordinate these activities.
As a result, on October 16, 1981, John Paul II established the Vatican Foundation, which he personally patronized.
