Pope Benedict XVI and Islam

Terrorism

When Benedict was elected, critics described him as tougher on terrorism and more wary of radical Islam than his predecessor. The Pope's own statements, however, have strongly supported those of outgoing Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano and his deputy, Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, the Holy See's foreign minister. "There seems to be a surprising degree of unanimity and outspokenness, so far at least, on this issue", said one diplomat in Rome. "In other words, if the pope really wasn't quite comfortable with (Cardinal) Sodano and (Archbishop) Lajolo as some suggest, he's giving them a lot of room. And his own public comments for the most part seem to echo theirs."

On July 21, 2006, Benedict XVI appealed to a convent of cloistered nuns to pray for the conversion of terrorists. According to Sister Maria, one of the 10 Carmelites of the community, the Holy Father said, "Pray also for the terrorists, as they do not know that not only do they harm their neighbor, but above all they harm themselves". Concerned about what was happening in the Holy Land, Benedict XVI added: "Now we experience a worsening of the conflict in Lebanon, but also in many other parts of the world there are people suffering because of hunger and violence. Contemplative life, rich in charity opens heaven to humanity, which so needs it, as today in the world it is as if God did not exist. And where God is not, there is violence and...
Read More