Dogma

Pope Benedict has gotten himself in some hot water over some remarks he made about Islam. In a speech in Germany, he quoted a 14th century Byzantine emperor as saying

"Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."

Apparently some Muslims interpreted those words as being offensive. Islamic leaders have once again declared that their religion is a peaceful one and vowed to cut off the heads of anyone who says otherwise.

Regardless of whether the Pontiff intended his words to be offensive or not, the question remains of just what the problem is. After all, if today's Catholics no longer care what the Pope has to say, why should anyone else?