Middle East

Boyle, who became famous with "Britain's Got Talent," sang in a warm up event for Benedict XVI’s Mass in Glasgow. A committed Catholic, says the rosary every day. Faith is the "pillar" of her life. The papal program today in London.

The government noose around pro-reform leader is getting tighter. One of his closest aides is arrested, whilst he is de facto under house arrest. According to his website, “another phase of restrictions has started”.

Mahmoud Abbas is threatening to leave negotiations if settlement activity does not stop. Freeze on new construction is set to expire in ten days. Netanyahu refuses to extend freeze, claiming security is Israel’s top priority.

Against all odds an estimated 100 thousand people gather at the first public Mass of his trip to Britain. Benedict XVI warns against those who "seek to exclude religious belief from public discourse, to privatize it or even to paint it as a threat to equality and liberty." An invitation to young people to stay connected to the love of Christ, rejecting drugs, money, sex, pornography, alcohol.

Moderate reactions - so far – from the Islamic world. Appreciated by women, who see it as a choice for modernity. The law provides for a six-month period of "education", then a woman who chooses to defy the ban will receive a fine of 150 Euros, a man who forces a woman to go veiled will be fined 30 thousand.

Benedict XVI launched appeal concerned about the anti-Christian violence. At the general audience he illustrates the figure of St. Clare, another of the many courageous and faith filled women to which the Church is indebted for their contribution to its renewal.

Issue of settlements and the recognition of the State of Israel top agenda. Netanyahu's refusal to renew moratorium on new occupations in the West Bank hinder initial optimism. More rockets from Gaza against Israel.

The result, more favourable than polls anticipated , shows the willingness of people to embark on a "normal" parliamentary democracy. Even some opposition supporters voted Yes. Erdogan, who sees a confirmation in the 2011elections, must now reveal his true intentions.

A survey by the Central Bureau of Statistics indicates that 42 per cent of adult Jews feel secular, but a strong underlying religiosity remains even if closely tied to the main festivities and special occasions. About 72 per cent say they were in a synagogue at least once in the past year. Compared to the past, 21 per cent feels more religious, 14 per cent feels less.

Applause during the Angelus, when Benedict XVI announces his trip to Great Britain. Explaining today's Gospel, he points out that despite being sinners we are loved by God. In the homecoming of the Prodigal Son “it is the Word itself ... that calls us to return". A greeting to the friends of John Paul II Foundation from Saudi Arabia.

Archbishop Louis Sako’s message read in the mosques, condemning the burning of the Koran during the homily for the Eid. For Islamic leaders Pastor Jones is not Christian. Imam of Kirkuk: "Our Christian brothers are always ready to show their solidarity."

Sunday's vote for a package of constitutional reforms, which, if approved, could remove what remains of the state desired by Kemal Ataturk. The campaign has been transformed into a vote for or against the government. Polls give a narrow victory to the Yes camp. The possible consequences.