Pope Benedict hopes his pilgrimage to Turkey will contribute to dialogue

(Dec. 4, 2006) Pope Benedict XVI hopes that the "unforgettable experience" of his pilgrimage to Turkey last week will contribute to further cooperation and dialogue with Orthodox Christians and followers of Islam. Speaking to thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square during his traditional midday Angelus prayer on Sunday, the Holy Father thanked God and everyone around the world who prayed for his Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 pilgrimage to Turkey. The Pope expressed his hopes that the trip "will bear good fruits for an ever more sincere cooperation among the disciples of Christ and for a fruitful dialogue with Muslim believers." He particularly mentioned "Turkey's authorities" and the friendly Turkish people, who offered him a welcome worthy of their traditional spirit of hospitality.
Sunday, Dec. 3 was the first Sunday of Advent, and the Holy Father particularly remembered "with affection and recognition the Catholic community of turkey, which, he said, lives in often difficult conditions. The Pope said, "It is truly a small, varied flock rich in enthusiasm and faith which, so to speak, lives the Advent experience constantly and intensely, supported by hope." Advent is a period of four weeks in preparation for Christmas, the birth of Christ. The Pope said God “"comes in the history of humanity to knock on the door of every man and woman of good will to offer individuals, families and peoples the gift of fraternity, concord and peace."
The Pontiff had recalled his trip to Turkey on Saturday afternoon during the Vespers service held in St. Peter’s Basilica to usher in the Advent season. In his homily he said, “Peace is the goal toward which humanity aspires. For believers, peace is one of the most beautiful names of God, who wants understanding among all his children, as I had the occasion to recall on my pilgrimage of these past days in Turkey."