Franco Pisano / inviato

Extremists from all sides find fault in Benedict XVI’s visit, which goes to show that his words in favour of dialogue and tolerance have hit their mark. On the plane taking him back to Rome he says it is easier to see the difficulties facing peace, but nothing is more visible than the desire for peace.

In Nazareth Benedict XVI stresses the duty of every “building blocks” in society. Joseph, an example of how to deal with authority. Children help parents to grow healthily. Women are fundamental in the creation of a “human ecology”. Christians and Muslims must overcome their divergences to build common bridges.

In Bethlehem Benedict XVI “pleads” with all people of the region to “put aside grievances”. Twice he recalls the Gaza conflict. He asks the Palestinian people to become a “bridge for dialogue”. Abbas speaks of “apartheid”.

In Jerusalem Benedict XVI goes to the Dome of the Rock and the Wailing Wall. With the Gran Mufti and Chief Rabbis he underlines the need to continue dialogue. But a Muslim exponent asks his help to put an end to Israeli “aggression”. Balloons bearing the Palestinian colours above the old city. Israeli newspapers criticise the discourse at Yad Vashem.

Benedict XVI has immediately faced the hot issues of this visit. From anti-Semitism which “continues to rear its ugly head in many parts of the world” to the request for a “just solution” to the conflict, and that all pilgrims to the Holy Sites have free access without restrictions.

In mass celebrated in Amman, Benedict XVI underlines “the prophetic Charism” of women. Groups from Lebanon and Palestine travel to take part in the ceremony. And Iraqi refugees including a group of 40 children; some of them receive their first Holy Communion from the Pope.

Benedict XVI repeats the Regensburg concept on the enlightened reason of faith. On Mount Nebo he affirms the “inseparable bond which united the Church and Jewish people”. Appeal that Iraqi Christians are guaranteed “fundamental rights of peaceful coexistence with their fellow citizens”.