THE INDEPENDENT: Benedict XVI hit out at what he described as the "increasing marginalisation of religion" during a dramatic second day of the papal visit during which police arrested six men for an alleged terrorist plot to attack the Pope.
Speaking to members of civil society in Westminster Hall, a venue filled with symbolism for the Catholic Church as the place where St Thomas More was condemned to death for refusing to abandon his loyalty to Rome, the Pope last night praised Britain's Parliamentary tradition for creating a "pluralist democracy which places great value on freedom of speech".
But he also attacked moves to relegate religion to the private sphere and said more should be done to protect religious festivals such as Christmas. Continue reading and comment >>> Jerome Taylor, Religious Affairs Correspondent | Saturday, September 18, 2010
THE INDEPENDENT: Pope's 'deep sorrow' over child abuse scandal: Pope Benedict XVI today offered his strongest public apology of his state visit to victims of child abuse within the Catholic Church.
The Pontiff told of the "shame and humiliation" brought by the scandal and expressed "deep sorrow" once again for the "unspeakable crimes". >>> Katie Hodge, Press Association | Saturday, September 18, 2010
