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November 21, 2008 12:04:09 PM CST

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Prominent Italian Muslim Baptized by Pope

Posted Mar 23, 08 6:30 CDT in Arts & Living,  World 

(Newser) – Italy's best-known commentator on Islam converted to Catholicism yesterday at the Vatican, during Easter vigil, and was baptized by the Pope himself, the AP reports. Though Magdi Allam was born a Muslim, he said he "never" practiced his native religion, and made his name criticizing Islamic fanaticism, receiving death threats in the process.

He also admits to taking communion as a teenager, even though Allam says he "knew it was an act of blasphemy.” The rituals of the Church aren’t entirely new to Allam, who is married to a Catholic. The very public conversion received a muted response from Italy’s Muslim community. “He is an adult, free to make his personal choice,” said a spokesman for one group.

Source Associated Press

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Pope Benedict XVI looks at the cross during the Easter vigil mass in St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican.   (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Magdi Allam is baptized by Pope Benedict XVI during the Easter vigil mass in St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican.   (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Magdi Allam, Italy's most prominent Muslim commentator, looks on after being baptized by Pope Benedict XVI during the Easter vigil mass in St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican.   (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
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Hamas • Italy • Islam • Pope Benedict XVI • Catholic Church • Vatican • Egypt • Catholicism • Easter • Magdi Allam


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