The Maximus Group offers spokespersons for commentary on Pope John Paul II

Contact: Alexis Walkenstein, The Maximus Group, 678-990-9032, AWalkenstein@MaximusMG.com

ATLANTA, April 28, 2011 /Christian Newswire/ -- Media coverage of the May 1 beatification of the Venerable Pope John Paul II is already generating headlines across the globe as the faithful and curious alike recount the profound and miraculous impact the beloved saint-to-be had on the world. Hundreds of media outlets will cover this historic event from Rome and every corner of the earth, scrutinizing one of the greatest Pontificates in history and how his sainthood has meaning for this generation.

The Maximus Group, the leading Catholic communications company in the United States, has assembled an outstanding group of spokespersons to speak on the miracles of JP II, the canonization process, and all aspects of John Paul II's life and legacy. Maximus staff members will be in Rome to help coordinate interview requests for media onsite, while staff at Maximus' U.S. headquarters will be coordinating remote interviews.

The roster of spokespersons includes Jesuit Fr. Joseph Fessio, founder and editor of Ignatius Press; Syndicated Catholic radio host Teresa Tomeo, who served as a delegate to the Pontifical Council for the Laity's International Women's Congress; Rev. Richard M. Hogan, one of the leading experts on John Paul II's Theology of the Body; Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R., one of the world's leading experts on Our Lady of Fatima (John Paul II believed that the attempt on his life was foretold in the mysterious Third Message of Fatima); and many others.

Additionally, should media wish to interview selected U.S. bloggers in connection with the first-ever Blogger Conference co-sponsored by the Pontifical Council for Culture and the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, Maximus can provide access to those participating in the historic event.

The Venerable Pope John Paul II shepherded the Roman Catholic Church for almost 27 years -- the second-longest documented pontificate (only Pope Pius IX led the Church longer). John Paul II is recognized as one of the most influential leaders of the 20th Century, having been instrumental in ending Communism in his native Poland and, eventually, all of Europe.

For interview requests or additional information, please contact Alexis Walkenstein of The Maximus Group at 678-990-9032 or 561-445-5409 (cell while traveling in Rome) and AWalkenstein@MaximusMG.com.