‘Pope John Paul II is preparing to leave the hospital this week, possibly as soon as tomorrow or Tuesday, for his return to the Vatican in time for Holy Week, according to a priest from the pontiff’s hometown. The Rev. Richard Nitschke, who spoke to the pope’s personal secretary during a visit yesterday, was the first person to publicly offer details on a possible discharge date since the frail 84-year-old pope was rushed to Gemelli Polyclinic and underwent throat surgery Feb. 24 to ease his breathing. The Vatican did not confirm the date. But it has said the pontiff would be back home in time for Holy Week celebrations that begin a week from now, on March 20, and culminate with Easter Sunday. The celebrations are among the most holy in the Roman Catholic Church’s calendar.’

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