Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, longtime secretary of Pope John Paul II, has published his memoirs in a book, A Life With Karol, available in Italian in late January. There’s no word yet on when it will be available in English, but Edward Pentin’s story on page 1 and the Catholic News Service report on page 5 provide some tantalizing details.

The marvelous story of the Holy Father’s secret ski excursions will delight those who loved the athletic Pope. But even more important is the invaluable record of the Pope’s personal reactions to momentous events. His words about the fall of the Berlin wall, the Sept. 11 attacks, and the Iraq war will enter into the historical record — while his concerned and prayerful responses can teach us how to be Christian.

We are blessed to have such a book by a cardinal who is so open and willing to share knowledge that would otherwise die with him, and who can give us a feel for what it was like to be close to such a great man — and saint.

Father Owen will be meeting Register sponsors in Florida, Feb. 1-10. For information, call Vivian Santilli at (800) 356-9916.