Over the years, he has struggled to win the affection of this nation of 16 million, but his immensely popular wife, the Argentine-born Maxima, has helped him gain more acceptance ever since she brushed away a tear during their wedding in 2002.

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"His death will be greeted with a great sense of sadness here because of his long-standing affection for this country, not just with the peace process, but on many other issues, including emigration, " McAleese said.

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But such is the love and affection that Polish people have for the Pope, some critics say this is irrelevant.

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Addressing the clergy who had joined him, he thanked them "not only for this week, but for these past eight years that you have carried with me -- with great skill, affection, love and faith -- the weight of the Petrine ministry, " referring to the papacy.

CNN: February 23, 2013 -- Updated 1735 GMT (0135 HKT)