Despite Missteps, Pope Reaching Out to Other Faiths

April 15, 2008

Author: Staff Writer

Source: The New York Times

Wire Service: Reuters

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/news/news-pope-usa-interfaith.html?scp=10&sq=religion&st=nyt

Pope Benedict, who is sometimes seen as insensitive to other faiths, will reach out to other religious leaders during his first visit to the United States, even though the trip is aimed at Roman Catholics.

The pope will meet with about 150 leaders of other religions on Thursday as he visits Washington, and he plans to visit a synagogue in New York on Friday.

Since his 2005 election, the pontiff has provoked concern and anger among Hindus, Muslims and Jews with highly publicized missteps. But leaders of those faiths said they are optimistic that interfaith dialogue will advance during his papacy.