In November 1996, Pope John Paul II -- whom many consider one of the centuries most important figures -- celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of his ordination as a priest. This occasion prompted him to reflect on his decision to enter the priesthood, on the many years that have passed since that event, and on the meaning that his vocation now has for him. The result of the Pope's thoughtful reflection is 'Gift And Mystery', a work which is far more personally revealing than anything he has yet written.