” “”The Catholic community of this country" is "fairly small, but very keen on participating in the best possible way in the development of the country, especially through the education of the young and the building of peace and harmony among all citizens”. This was said this afternoon by the Pope, during his meeting in Ankara with the diplomatic corps. The Pontiff placed emphasis on the "positive role" that can be played by "religions within the social body", provided "they do not try to directly wield any political power, since they are not called to do this" and do not "justify the use of violence as the legitimate expression of religious practice”. On mentioning the importance of "a true dialogue between religions and between cultures" to "get to know each other better and respect each other", Benedict XVI reasserted his "esteem for Muslims", inviting them to "keep working together, through mutual respect, for promoting the dignity of every human being and for the growth" of society. (to be continued)” “
