Windswept Pope goes back to homeland

POPE Benedict XVI arrived yesterday for the World Youth Day in Cologne to cheers from youthful pilgrims on his first foreign trip as Pope.

It is a journey that will emphasise outreach to Jews and Muslims and evangelising a Europe that has drifted from its Christian heritage.

Standing on the bow of cruise ship on the Rhine, the Pope preached to a crowd of thousands on both sides of the riverbank, addressing his flock as well as the unbaptised. “I also greet with affection those among you who have not been baptised or who have not found a home in the church,” he said.