Then this is the issue that will prove his mettle?
Yes, in a matter of speaking...this is an issue that will "announce" his mettle (G-d saw to the proof of it previously)
I an not a Catholic (I do go to Mass with a family member)...but this Pope is stepping up to the plate. He has offered no apology except to say he is sorry islam is offended by the truth.
I believe he knows what he is doing. He has fired the first shot across the bow of islam. He has stated unequivalently that islam cannot withstand the truth...islam cannot withstand rational thought.