Posted on 09/26/2006 7:34:18 PM PDT by Aussie Dasher
CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy -- Seeking to end anger in the Islamic world over his remarks on holy war, Pope Benedict XVI told Muslim envoys Monday their two faiths must overcome historic enmities and together reject violence, saying the future of humanity is at stake. The pope also urged ''reciprocity'' in religious freedom, calling for preserving the rights of Christians throughout the Islamic world.
''The circumstances which have given rise to our gathering are well known,'' Benedict said, referring to his remarks on Islam in a Sept. 12 speech at Regensburg University in Germany, which set off protests around the Muslim world.
Regret, but no apology
He did not dwell on the contested remarks, in which he quoted a 14th century Byzantine emperor as saying: ''Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached.''
Benedict has expressed regret for offending Muslims and said his remarks did not reflect his personal views, but he has not offered a complete apology as some have sought.
Still, his five-minute address Monday at a meeting with 22 foreign diplomats and representatives of Italian Muslim organizations -- whom the pope greeted one-by-one, clasping their hands warmly -- seemed to be well received by his guests at his vacation palace in the Alban Hills south of Rome.
''The Holy Father stated his profound respect for Islam. This is what we were expecting,'' Iraqi envoy Albert Edward Ismail Yelda said as he left the 30-minute meeting. ''It is now time to put what happened behind and build bridges.''
Anger predicted to continue
Nearly all the other envoys left without speaking to reporters..
Fahmi Howeidi, a liberal Islamic writer in Egypt, said that since the pope did not apologize, protests may continue. ''[Benedict] addressed the ambassadors but didn't deal with the Muslim street, the anger in the street will continue,'' Howeidi said in a telephone interview
The ball is now firmly in the moozie court!
I wonder if the apparitions at Fatima had anything to do with Islam.
Benedict rocks!
Everytime I hear someone say we need to get along I'm reminded of the scene in Independance Day where they ask the alien "what do you want from us?"
Alright Pope Benny
Yep.
I wish it were other wise but it will not be.
I've been wondering that lately as well. Pope Bene seems to understand that there are basically two choices: the world's religions get along or the global war of civilizations will begin in earnest.
My understanding is that the last revelation of Fatima is only known to the Pope and a small circle of confidants.
Not unless they featured a view into hell.
There can be no coexistence with Islam.
Islamic religious theory allows for only one condition for the survival of infidels - a subirdinate ine under Islamic rule - period.
I had the same thought several times recently as well. I really do not think it is possible to rationally deal with them in any aspect, none at all.
The Pope should submit a permit application.
Too bad our politicians don't have the fortitude that Benedict has.
I have been wondering that too and went to some websites to do some research, such as there was. Any ideas?
There is no doubt in my mind that the Pope had a purpose for his statements. He could be simply trying to draw attention to the violence of Islam or perhaps he wants to act as a lightening rod to divert an attack somewhere else where thousands would die.
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