An unprecedented testament to the enduring power of faith and devotion, this inspiring and sumptuously illustrated work showcases the luminous writings of his Holiness on God, love and humanity. John Paul II, the most charismatic religious leader of our time, is a man whose actions truly reflect his beliefs. At the dawn of the new Millennium, AN INVITATION TO JOY brings together a selection of John Paul's messages with the most poignant photographs documenting his life both before and after his election to papacy. For the first time, here is an illustrated devotional keepsake album that distills the essence of his message and shows the intimate connection between his words and deeds. Three main sections, THE HUMAN FAMILY, THE PEOPLE OF GOD, THE DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON, encompass the themes that are most important to the Pontiff. Resonant passages on everything from love and family, suffering and evil, freedom and human rights, other religions and the role of women are coupled with striking photographs. A fourth section, A LIFETIME OF DEVOTION, provides a portrait of the Pope's entire life in pictures, from his early childhood to his current day-to-day activities in the Vatican. Reflecting the Pope's all-embracing outreach to people around the world, AN INVITATION TO JOY will inspire both those inside and outside the Catholic Church.

Pope John Paul II was born Karol Jozef Wojtyla in Poland in 1920. Appointed in 1978, he is the youngest pontiff in 132 years and the first non-Italian pope in 455 years. Fluent in eight languages he is a champion of human rights whose greatest hope is to help create a world where all people live in freedom and plenitude.