He defined Roman Catholicism, I suspect.

I 'lapsed' over many issues. First and foremost over the issue of 'Confession', which I thought to be just a smoke-screen to enable the Clergy to keep their ear far too close to the ground, for my liking.
I wasn't old enough to be thinking of condoms, at that stage of my life.

That said, I never wanted to twist the Catholic Church to what my interpretation should be of it. If it doesn't suit you, leave it, and make up your own version of the religion.

I can rain criticisms down on most 'Organised' religions, for the control they exert over their followers.

But remember.... They are followers of the faith. And that is their business.

John Paul II upheld the tenets of the Roman Catholic Church. I have no doubt of his faith, and of his belief that he was carrying out the work of God.

I'm also a little skeptical about the existence of God bit, as well, if the truth be known, but as I say, I can admire his faith, his conviction, his Ecumenical work, and the fact that he was a genuine person.

I liked him.