Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII were canonized as saints . David Perry : This is significant for Catholics , but non-Catholics should care too . He says both men offer a model of risk-taking based on a strong sense of moral purpose . Perry : The possibilities of their lives were not constricted by desires for wealth , power or honor . The two popes are the most influential figures in Catholic history because they have been able to inspire people with their vision of what it means to be human.
Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII were canonized as saints . David Perry : This is significant for Catholics , but non-Catholics should care too . He says both men offer a model of risk-taking based on a strong sense of moral purpose . Perry : The two popes are the most influential figures in Catholic history because they have been able to inspire people with their vision of what it means to be human.