The Friends of John Paul II Foundation, Washington, DC Chapter, hosted its annual luncheon commemorating the 105th birthday remembrance of Pope Saint John Paul II. Held at the Army-Navy Country Club, the luncheon event brought together supporters, friends, and honored guests united by their admiration for the life and teachings of the “Polish Pope.”
This year’s program opened with an invocation by Father David Smith, MIC, and a stirring performance of Polish and American national anthems by soprano Dr. Laura Kafka-Price. This was Laura’s first performance since her husband, General George Price, passed. Laura also shared that she has just published, in collaboration with Maksymilian Krzak, a book titled “Polish Pronunciation Guide for Singers,” published by Oxford University Press in May 2025. There will surely be an excellent tool for English-speaking singers of Pope’s favorite songs!
The inspirational keynote address, “John Paul II on Holiness: Distinct Elements,” was delivered by theologian and former diplomat Dr. John Grondelski, introduced by Tom Kolodziej. John powerfully explored the centrality of holiness in John Paul II’s vision for individual lives and society. *
Krystyna Ossowski created a beautiful atmosphere by creating beautiful flower arrangements, and Clarissa Pace designed a beautiful Program booklet.
Master of Ceremonies Dr. Hugh Dempsey, GMOb, skillfully maintained a welcoming atmosphere throughout the event. Krystyna Ossowski created a beautiful atmosphere by creating beautiful flower arrangements, and Clarissa Pace designed a beautiful Program booklet.
Roza Pace, President of the Friends of John Paul II Foundation, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of John Paul II’s legacy twenty years after his passing. She reflected on the symbolism of May 18—John Paul II’s birthday, and a date shared with saints like Blessed Pope John I and Saint Stanislaus Papczyński—and its new meaning in 2025 as the date of Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass, marking a hopeful continuity in papal mission.
This was Laura’s first performance since her husband, General George Price, passed. Laura also shared that she has just published, in collaboration with Maksymilian Krzak, a book titled “Polish Pronunciation Guide for Singers,” published by Oxford University Press in May 2025. There will surely be an excellent tool for English-speaking singers of Pope’s favorite songs!
Master of Ceremonies Dr. Hugh Dempsey, GMOb, skillfully maintained a welcoming atmosphere throughout the event. Krystyna Ossowski created a beautiful atmosphere by creating beautiful flower arrangements, and Clarissa Pace designed a beautiful Program booklet.
Krystyna Ossowski created a beautiful atmosphere by creating beautiful flower arrangements, and Clarissa Pace designed a beautiful Program booklet.
Roza Pace, President of the Friends of John Paul II Foundation, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of John Paul II’s legacy twenty years after his passing. She reflected on the symbolism of May 18—John Paul II’s birthday, and a date shared with saints like Blessed Pope John I and Saint Stanislaus Papczyński—and its new meaning in 2025 as the date of Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass, marking a hopeful continuity in papal mission.
Joyful Skrypczuk Duo (Stasia and Olek lead the guests to singing Pope’s favorite song, Barka and Olech playing masterfully music from the song of “Les Miz,” titled “Bring him home”, which brought tears to some of the audience.
The event closed with final reflections from Dr. Dempsey and a benediction by Father Smith. Through music, reflection, and fellowship, attendees honored the enduring influence of Saint John Paul II and reaffirmed their commitment to his call: “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ.” The feeling of John Paul II’s spirit was palpable. Special thanks go to Dr. Laura-Kafka Price and Stasia and Olek Skrypczuk, Hugh Dempsey, D.Ed, GCMOb, Father David Smith, MIC, Cecilia Glembocki, Rose Kobylinski, Connie Donnelly, Tom Kolodziej, Krystyna Ossowski, and Marianna Eckel, and all Friends and guests who made the afternoon such a warm and memorable event.
* Summary of Dr. Grondelski’s remarks and additional photos from the event.
