Nonstop media coverage has become the norm these days, whether it’s a young woman caught in a terrible political battle in Florida or a celebrity trial.

But perhaps this weekend, the TV networks have finally found a subject worthy of all of their attention.

The legacy Pope John Paul II leaves on the world is enormous. For Catholics, he has been the third-longest serving pope, a leader who has guided the church through extraordinary times but has kept a common touch and has kept so many of the traditions of the church intact.

For the rest of the world, he has been a supporter of peace and freedom, a spiritual leader unafraid to speak his mind and effect change, whether on stopping the spread of communism or encouraging a culture of life.

Pope John Paul II has been the true uniter, bringing together not only members of the Catholic church around the world but also reaching out to so many others. He was the first pope to ask forgiveness of the Jews for their treatment by Catholics. He visited a mosque in Damascus and sought dialogues with Muslims.

Not everyone has agreed with all of Pope John Paul II’s policies. But his steadfastness on issues such as respecting life and promoting peace, not to mention his devotion to prayer and to a life of faith, are beacons for each of us.

Bishop Joseph Latino of the Diocese of Jackson urged Mississippi Catholics on Saturday to offer an act of kindness in memory of Pope John Paul II.

It is a fitting tribute, and one each of us, regardless of our faith, could certainly accomplish.