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May 16, 2005 -- "SantoSubito.US" Internet web site, based on the Latin translation of "Sainthood Now," is calling for all Catholics and all Americans to applaud Pope Benedict XVI for his decision to expedite sainthood for Pope John Paul II.
"Few Popes, if any, have generated the universal outpouring of love and respect as Pope John Paul II has from people of all faiths and religions" said Richard Rovsek, a San Diego marketing executive who founded the web site.
"Many Catholic priests, bishops, and even Cardinals have expressed their desire for immediate Sainthood for Pope John Paul II," Rovsek said, "and so it is important that people of all religions support Pope Benedict XVI's decision to expedite sainthood on a 'fast track' basis."
Rovsek said he developed the special Internet web site, www.santosubito.us, "after hearing the huge throng, more than 100,000 attending Pope Paul II's open air funeral, shouting 'Santo Subito' for the charismatic Pope John Paul II."
He said that Vatican officials had previously explained it would be necessary for Pope Benedict to waive the usual 5-year waiting period for sainthood."
Rovsek said that "Vatican experts have noted that, even with the waiting period lifted, a lengthy investigation into John Paul's life and confirmation of 2 miracles attributed to him would be required before he could be beatified."
He said there is no charge for recording each petitioners support for sainthood for Pope John Paul II on the www.santosubito.us web site, "which will be automatically forwarded instantly to the Vatican web site in Rome."
If the signer of the petition wishes, one of Pope John Paul II's prayers can be downloaded from the web site at no charge, or a special wallet-sized card of the prayer can be ordered, via the web site for a nominal $2.95 to help defray the costs of the printing, shipping and handling.
Additionally, Rovsek has arranged for a special 8"X 10" commemorative lithograph certificate depicting Pope John Paul II, the Vatican, and the Pope's seal, suitable for framing and personalized with the name of the petitioner, to recognize each person's support for his beatification.
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