n The editorial (“No papal apology?” Sept. p. 6) was incomplete in its presentation of Pope Benedict’s response to the “worldwide Islamic reaction” to his speech of last week in Regensburg, Germany.
The Pope, on more than one occasion, not only expressed sorrow over the incident, but he also emphatically stated that the offensive words did not reflect his views and he clarified the meaning of his words.
On September 16, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican Secretary of State, issued a statement that said, ”As for the opinion of the Byzantine emperor… which he quoted during his Regensburg talk, the Holy Father did not mean, nor does he mean, to make that opinion his own in any way. He simply used it as a means to undertake in an academic context, and as is evident from a complete and attentive reading of the text — certain reflections on the theme of the relationship between religion and violence in general, and to conclude with a clear and radical rejection of the religious motivation for violence, from whatever side it may come.”
On September 17, Pope Benedict in a public address said, “At this time, I wish also to add that I am deeply sorry for the reactions in some countries to a few passages of my address at the University of Regensburg, which were considered offensive to the sensibility of Muslims. These, in fact, were a quotation from a medieval text, which do not in any way express my personal thought. Yesterday, the Cardinal Secretary of State published a statement in this regard in which he explained the true meaning of my words. I hope that this serves to appease hearts and to clarify the true meaning of my address, which in its totality was and is an invitation to frank and sincere dialogue, with great mutual respect.”
The Pope has not only expressed sorrow at the reaction to his speech, as you stated, he also made it abundantly clear that the offending words do not reflect his position and he unequivocally expressed his great respect for Islam.
I join with you in your desire to see a healing of the rift between Christians and Muslims and a prevention of further outrage and violence.
It is my belief that conveying the full extent of what Pope Benedict said will further this goal. It is also my earnest hope that the Pope’s response will open the doors to a sincere and honest discussion among all people of good will — regardless of their faith – that will lead to a rejection of a religious motivation for violence.
Fr. Paul Helfrich
Boston University Catholic Center Director