History

Our school was built in 1967 and was originally named St. Thomas. The school became Pope John Paul II in 2005 when the St. Thomas and St. James school programs amalgamated. Staff at the time felt it was very important to establish a strong sense of community, foster a positive atmosphere and create a sense of belonging. Parents, students and staff at the new Pope John Paul II worked together to create a distinct identity to unite the communities of St. Thomas and St. James. A school logo and school colours were established to set this new school apart. The love that Pope John Paul II (1920-2005) had for youth radiates throughout the school. Located in the Eastview neighbourhood, Pope John Paul II also served students from the Stonebridge neighbourhood until 2017 when St. Kateri Tekakwitha opened its doors.Our school community works hard to emulate Jesus and follow the example of fellowship set forth by its patron. You will find that our school community embraces each other and operates as one big family. We are all valued, needed and celebrated.  

Saint Pope John Paul II

Born:                     May 18, 1920 (Karol Józef Wojtyła)

Died:                     April 2, 2005

Elected Pope:      October 16, 1978

Beatified:              May 1, 2011 (Blessed Pope John Paul II)

Canonized:           April 27, 2014 (Saint Pope John Paul II)

Feast Day:            October 22

Saint Pope John Paul II was one of the most travelled and loved Popes in the world.

Saint Pope John Paul II had a strong love for youth. In 1985, he initiated World Youth Day. Due to failing health, World Youth Day 2002 in Toronto was the last he was able to attend. World Youth Day 2002 was the 10th world youth day held. World Youth Days are still being organized every 2-3 years in various cities across the world.

Saint Pope John Paul II dedicated the Second Sunday of Easter to Divine Mercy, to the unlimited trust in God the merciful. Divine Mercy Sunday is usually celebrated in our local parishes at 3pm with special devotions to the Divine Mercy.

Saint Pope John Paul II is best known for:

      - his successful efforts to end communism

      - building bridges with peoples of other faiths

      - issuing the Catholic Church's first apology for its actions during World War II

      - vocal advocate for human rights