February 27, 1961: A Note Card Written and Signed by Cardinal Albino Luciani, the Future Pope John Paul I

February 27, 1961:  A Note Card Written and Signed by Cardinal Albino Luciani, the Future Pope John Paul I

In 2001 Father Kunst and his father went to northern Italy, to an area called Belluno, where Pope John Paul I lived. They visited his family, in particular his niece, Pia Luciani, and his brother Eduardo, and his sister-in-law. They spent the day with them, visiting the home where the Pope was born. They were very hospitable and generous people who were happy to show Father Kunst the areas of Pope John Paul’s childhood.

Father Kunst formed a great bond with them but then lost contact. Very recently, in 2010, he reconnected with Pia Luciani. She fondly remembered their visit. Recognizing his affection for her uncle, she sent a gift, a note card on her uncle’s original letterhead, as well as the envelope, from his time as a very young bishop in Vittorio Veneto, Italy.

The note card is dated 1961 and is written on both sides. It says:

Dear Pia, Thank you for your news. I’m always very happy when I receive them, especially when they reveal to me your commitment and your effort to be studious and a good girl. The commitment is not very little because it needs to begin again every day.

Your Father came recently, here at the castle, but unfortunately, I was away this day. However, as far as I know, all are fine at home.

Love from me and blessings.

A.Luciani

This is an extremely rare and treasured item, because John Paul I was not considered to be a strong papal candidate and was only pope for thirty-three days. People did not save items belonging to him. So finding things of his is actually quite rare, making this item very special.

Items belonging to or associated with Pope John Paul I comprise some of the most valued and personal items in the Collection. They may be found on Papal Artifacts/John Paul I.  Biographical information, a you tube, his burial site and coat of arms are found on Papal History/John Paul I.

He remains one of Father Kunst’s favorite popes.

Papal Artifacts honors the gift of Albino Luciani, Pope John Paul I, to our Church.