Aide Admits Pope's Hitler Youth Past— With Explanation

Religious, political leaders say pontiff didn't go far enough

(NEWSER) - Pope Benedict XVI yesterday disappointed Israelis hoping to hear a historic statement of regret for the Catholic church's conduct during the Holocaust, the Guardian reports. The pope, speaking at a remembrance service at Israel's official Holocaust memorial, spoke of the church's compassion for the victims and the need to remember them—but critics say he avoided mentioning specifics or expressing remorse. More»

(NEWSER) - Pope Benedict paid his respects at the Holocaust Memorial in Israel today, the BBC reports, declaring anti-Semitism “totally unacceptable” as he laid down his wreath. “May the names of these victims never perish,” he said. “May their suffering never be denied, belittled, or forgotten.” Before his speech, he shook hands with six Holocaust survivors, as Israeli leaders looked on. More»

Pontiff steps into controversy immediately upon arrival

(NEWSER) - Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Israel today and immediately called for the creation of an independent Palestine, reports AP. The pontiff also vowed to "honor the memory" of the 6 million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Benedict's support for a free Palestine puts him at odds with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is opposed to a two-state solution. More»

Vatican vows to plug into how news spreads online

(NEWSER) - Pope Benedict will release a personal letter to bishops tomorrow that explains why he reinstated an excommunicated Holocaust denier and expresses regret for how that news was delivered, the New York Times reports. In leaked passages, the pontiff admits mistakes and promises greater awareness in the future of how news spreads online. The pope calls his actions “a modest act of mercy.” More»

(NEWSER) - The Vatican today rejected Bishop Richard Williamson’s so-called apology for his Holocaust beliefs, CNN reports, a mea culpa mandated by the Pope. “He must also distance himself in an absolutely unequivocal and public from his stand regarding the [Holocaust],” a spokesman said. Williamson said he regretted the “distress” his remarks caused, and “would not have made them” if he’d known, but did not retract them. More»