Visitors are not passive observers, but active participants. It is in the orientation theaters that visitors learn about the Center and come to know that the Center is considered incomplete without their testimonials and interaction with each other. And, it is here, where each visitor begins also to interact directly with the Center through an interactive panel located at each seat. This makes the dynamic of the visitor's experience both one of giving and receiving, which constantly shapes and renews the Center.

The Orientation Video shows visitors what they can expect from their visit and introduces them to the mission of the Center, to present the "faith, life, and mission of the Catholic Church as illuminated by the pontificate of John Paul II." This is done through focusing on seven major themes of the Holy Father's pontificate:

1) The Glory of God is the Human Being Fully Alive
2) The Dignity of the Human Being
3) The Church as Defender of Human Rights
4) Persons in Community
5) The Unity of Christians, The Unity of the World
6) A New Evangelization
7) The Third Millennium

Although the selection of one of these themes is not necessary, it can help focus a visitor's experience through the Center like a lens. Visitors will be given suggestions about how to think of this theme as it relates to the galleries.