The Pope and the Muslims

Interesting piece about B16's approach to Islam:

With a challenge to Muslim leaders to reject and condemn "any connection between your faith and terrorism," Benedict has subtly redefined Vatican relations with Islam, departing from the conciliatory overtures of his predecessor to forge an approach that presses for reform.

The shift, observers say, reflects a growing desire among Vatican officials for the Catholic Church to reassert itself after two decades of dovish dialogue under John Paul II.

Support for interreligious dialogue remains strong, but the growth of European Islam and a declining Christian presence in predominantly Muslim countries -- coupled with the spread of Islamic terrorism -- has prompted a new Catholic consensus that conditions must be placed on future contact.

Link.