[Video] Pope John Paul II Survives Assassination Attempt

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Today in History:
Pope John Paul II Survives Assassination Attempt
5.13.1981

Today in history, on May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot and seriously wounded in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, in a shocking assassination attempt that stunned the world. As he greeted thousands of faithful during his weekly audience, Turkish gunman Mehmet Ali Ağca fired multiple shots at the pontiff, striking him in the abdomen, hand, and arm.

The Pope was rushed into emergency surgery and miraculously survived, later crediting the Virgin Mary with guiding the bullet away from his vital organs. His remarkable recovery captured global attention, but what followed was even more extraordinary—just two years later, Pope John Paul II visited Ağca in prison and personally forgave him.

This powerful act of compassion became a defining moment of his papacy, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to peace, mercy, and human dignity. The attempt on his life only deepened his spiritual resolve and strengthened his global influence as a moral and religious leader.

The events of that day remain etched in history as a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of forgiveness.