Pope Benedict XVI speaking to representatives of the Islamic community while visiting Germany:

Past experience teaches us that relations between Christians and Muslims have not always been marked by mutual respect and understanding. How many pages of history record battles and even wars that have been waged, with both sides invoking the name of God, as if fighting and killing the enemy could be pleasing to him. The recollection of these sad events should fill us with shame, for we know only too well what atrocities have been committed in the name of religion. The lessons of the past must help us to avoid repeating the same mistakes. We must seek paths of reconciliation and learn to live with respect for each other’s identity.

I liked that particular quote. One of the things I liked best about Pope John Paul II was his persistant efforts to reach across the intangible borders to people of other cultures, faiths and those whom the church had wronged. Though I am not a Roman Catholic (my Grandmother is) I hope to see that example continued by Pope Benedict XVI.

Don't get me wrong: I am not a fan of wishy-washy "let's sacrifice all of what we stand for in the name of inoffensive harmony".

Not at all.

People who disagree with each other can still offer each other civility and respect, let alone the right to exist. It does not have to degrade into base hatred and nihilism.

Pope Benedict XVI seems to agree.

I am profoundly convinced that we must not yield to the negative pressures in our midst, but must affirm the values of mutual respect, solidarity and peace. The life of every human being is sacred, both for Christians and for Muslims. There is plenty of scope for us to act together in the service of fundamental moral values.

Posted by Michael at August 21, 2005 04:14 PM