Source: Hindustan Times

Wire Service: PTI

http://www.hindustantimes.com/news/181_1333826,00110001.htm

On April 23, 2005 the Press Trust of India reported, "Notwithstanding his hardline views, newly-elected Pope Benedict XVI will strike a balance between traditional church doctrine and the growing phenomenon of 'Asian Theology' that interprets Christian teachings in the light of other religions, theologians feel. 'I am optimistic that under Pope Benedict XVI, both the traditionalists and Asian Theologians would abandon some of their rigidity and be able to bring about a more balanced and nuanced relationship,' Fr Sebastian Karotempril, a renowed theologian and personal acquaintance of Benedict XVI said.  Asian Theology began as a small movement among the clergy since the sixties, taking advantage of the liberalism sweeping the Catholic Church after the Second Vatican Council. It now has a sizeable following, especially in India where almost all major world religions have a presence. 'The Asian Theology examines the age-old Catholic traditions in the light of other religions. It acknowledges that followers of other faiths can also attain salvation provided they live according to their conscience,' he said."