Nepal

This afternoon Benedict XVI will honour the statue of the Virgin at the Spanish Steps. "In the trials of life, in the storms that shake” the Church, it is supported by Mary, Mother of the Church. Through the "seed of the woman," God overcomes the serpent. Greetings to the Pontifical Academy of the Immaculate and Italian Azione Cattolica.

In his tribute to the statue of the Immaculata in Piazza di Spagna, Benedict XVI outlines the city’s problems: the evil told and amplified by the media, the indifference and lack of respect for people, the lack of responsibility that makes us spectators of evil. Mary’s presence means Jesus has defeated evil and “makes us hope even in the humanly most difficult situations.” The Pope thanks all those who respond to evil doing good rather complaining or recriminating.

Mandatory limits on emissions of carbon dioxide excluded. 10500 billion dollars in investment is needed. Concern for poor countries. The pope's appeal. The scandal of Climagate: scientists have decided to "tamper" with data on global warming to push for action. But according to others the earth is cooling.

Landless and Maoists protest the eviction of illegal homes from Dudhejhadi forest engage in gun battles with police. The dead include two policemen. To seek justice Maoists block the entire country.

Benedict XVI recalls that Jesus was a historical figure, inserted within a specific context. The Immaculate helps the Church in its struggle "between the desert and the garden, between sin which dries up land and grace that irrigates”. In Copenhagen for the protection of creation, following the laws of God in nature, and to launch sober lifestyles respectful of the poorest.

Opinion polls in Europe show that the Swiss referendum would have also won in France, Holland, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria. The no to the minaret is a no to the increasing (and never satisfied) Islamist demands. The European population thinks differently and wants its leaders to reaffirm its identity. The no to the minarets is an invitation to true dialogue.

Cabinet expresses concern over climate change impact on Himalayas. The country’s protected areas are extended by 25 per cent. Funds are allocated to help people living at the foot of the mountain range and for greater protection of Nepal’s natural heritage.

The site has grown annually by 10%. The demands of Pakistan; the gratitude of the martyrs of Orissa; the initial commitment of Muslims to the freedom of Christians and the dignity of women. Our thanks for the support – also economic - of our readers and friends.

The situation in the Middle East is stagnant: a crisis of Islam drags everything into a fatal paralysis. The crisis also affects the West, oblivious to its Christian roots. Yet Islam and the West need each other. A study by our expert on Islam, in preparation for the Synod of the Churches of the Middle East.

The Nepali government will hold a special session of the cabinet next Friday at 5,614 metres of altitude. Its agenda will include a resolution to present to UN Copenhagen conference, support for ‘Save the Himalayas’ campaign and the creation of a new conservation area at the foot of the ‘Roof of the World’.

At the start of the Liturgical Year, Benedict XVI emphasises that Jesus Christ is the hope rich and developing peoples as well as believers and non-believers need. His thoughts go to AIDS patients, especially children and the very poor. He also greets the march organised to assert the religious, historical and cultural value of the Crucifix, in the wake of a ruling by the European Court.

The arrival of 5 thousand priests from around the world is expected, especially from Europe. The three-day meeting will conclude with a vigil with the pope and Mass celebrated by Benedict XVI in St Peter's Square.