These alabaster bookends feature beloved and selfless Saint and Pope and an intercessory prayer. Able to keep heavy books in line, they both organize and decorate your home. This commemorative pair of bookends makes the perfect personal gift for everyone with a devotion to this selfless leader of Christ's Church on earth. It includes the date of his canonization and a prayer for his intercession.

Pope Saint John Paul II was known for his dynamic calling of all people, especially the youth, deeper into their faith. He emphasized the value and beauty of every person, which led him to both preach a new positive explanation of chastity and to oppose communism around the world. The original photo was taken by Grzegorz Galazka.

The bookends are made from stone-cast alabaster here in our shop in Steubenville, Ohio. Alabaster is a building and decorating material created from the mineral gypsum that has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs. It boasts an attractive smooth finish and will last for years to come.

Each measures roughly 6" x 8", including the 4"x 6" inset image plaque, and is 3" deep.

Text reads:

Left Bookend:

"Pope Saint John Paul II

'John Paul the Great'"

Right Bookend:

"Pope Saint John Paul II

Born: May 18, 1920

Ordained: November 1, 1946

Elected Pontiff: October 16, 1978

Died: April 2, 2005

Canonized April 27, 2014

Heavenly Father, we offer You thanks and praise for the life of Your Servant Karol Wojtyla, an for his canonization by Your Holy Catholic Church.

As Pope John Paul II, he served Your Church as Successor to the Apostle Peter and Vicar of Christ with bravery, selflessness, and vigor.

Grant, O Lord, that we may now seek his intercession as Pope St. John Paul II, and call upon this great Saint to further Your Kingdom upon the Earth. May we look to his example of love and personal holiness."

(BKE-873A)