Pope deplores ‘selfish mindset’

Pope Benedict rang in the new year with a Mass for about 10,000 people in St Peter’s Basilica yesterday, as the Church marked its World Day of Peace.

The 85-year-old pontiff spoke of peace both during and after the Mass, addressing thousands who had followed the service from outside in St Peter’s Square.

“A new year is like a trip. With the light and the grace of God, may it be the start of a path to peace for every person, every family, every country, and for the entire world,” he said from his window overlooking the square.