These pictures created a media frenzy similar to (or greater than) the sightings of the Virgin Mary. The Italian media continually broadcast these pictures to the public. Religious websites posted them, only to experience a server crash when too many people tried to access the sites. Many people believe that the fiery apparition is Pope John Paul II, waving to them from beyond during a ceremony that honored the second year of his passing.

Is this really Pope John Paull II or a trick of the flame? I have to admit that the silhouette looks remarkably similar.