Benedict needs to update his global view

POPE Benedict’s reference to Persian scholars and Christian emperors somewhere back in the 14th century showed how out of touch he is with the modern world.

As if living in some historical limbo was not bad enough, had he no inkling, until it was too late, of how provocative and dangerous such remarks would have been in the current political context? The Vatican urgently needs to update its global view and it could begin by revising its papal election system before proceeding to a review of its generally archaic teachings and communications. If the Vatican continues to exert its traditional influence, Bush, Blair, Chirac and others may as well surrender in their war on terror. In recent days, Pope Benedict did everything except make our world a safer place to live in.

Kevin Jordan

Village View

Clashmore

Co Waterford