News from Around the World

Historians will debate why the politically visionary Pope John Paul II, who was well briefed by many bishops on the sex abuse scandals that erupted in 1993, stood passive, offering minimal leadership as criminal and civil actions mounted around the world. And they may yet be surprised by Pope Benedict XVI: if he stays true to his moral absolutism, the Vatican could take a stronger stance against priests who have molested children.

In this moment, my memory goes back to the day Pope John Paul II began his ministry in St. Peter's Square. His words echo in my ears: "Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ."... If we let Christ into our lives, we lose nothing. It is only in this friendship that we experience everything that is beautiful and everything that is free.