Well...

My optimism was short lived. Apparently Benedict XVI is particularly homophobic, and is not what you would call tolerent of other religions. Obviously the Pope is going to think that Catholicism is the best way to go, but Benedict XVI opposes the inculsion of Turkey in Europe (despite history, politics, geography, culture, etc.--for example, Turkey? homeland of this blog's namesake) because it is a predominantly Muslim nation. I mean that's pretty hardcore Muslim-hating...opposing secular political and economic partnership because of adherance to Islam. Also, turns out, funny story, as a cardinal he was in charge of the Vatican handling of the American church sex abuse scandal...which was handled, um, extremely poorly and with a thin veneer of contempt for ordinary parishioners.

(Also, CNN is still at it, this time via Judy Woodruff. Apparantly the pope is treated "almost like royalty." Which is to be expected since he is, in fact, royalty. Not hereditary sure--neither was the Holy Roman Emperor--, but he is the absolute ruler of a state, he lives in a palace, and has honorific titles. Sounds like royalty to me. Asses)