Tuesday, May 18, 2004

Pope celebrates 84th birthday

VATICAN CITY -- Pope John Paul II (search) marked his 84th birthday Tuesday with publication of his new book, Get Up, Let Us Go, which "mixes memories from his native Poland, a touch of self-criticism and a defense of priestly celibacy" (Fox News, May 17, 2004). According to one reviewer, the book contains a few candid revelations--that he has never felt "lonely" despite a life of celibacy but also that he questions whether he perhaps has not been strict enough. The book is likely to be a best seller. His 1994 book, Crossing the Threshold of Hope, has sold more than 20 million copies. His royalties will go to charity. (The Age, Entertainment/Books)

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