A traditional Polish color guard parades a statue of Pope John Paul II among parishioners at Five Holy Martyrs following a Mass in thanksgiving for the beatification John Paul II May 1. Parishes in the Archdiocese of Chicago celebrated the Polish pontiffs elevation to blessed along with the beatification Mass by Pope Benedict XVI in Rome. Here are some photos from Chicago-area Catholics marking the momentous event.
30th Ward Alderman Ariel Reboyras holds up a sign that reads "Pope John Paul II Way" while St. Hyacinth Basilica pastor Father Michael Osuch looks on, May 1. John Paul II Way, which is part of Central Park Avenue near the church, was dedicated following a Mass celebrating John Paul's beatification.
Photo: Karen Callaway / Catholic New World