Religion Roundup
Pope Urges Israel to Help Christian Community and Ease Clergy Visa Problems
The Associated Press
May 13, 2008
VATICAN CITY - Pope Benedict XVI is urging Israel to help the dwindling Christian community in the Middle East by assuring them of a secure future in the region.
He has also asked Israel to resolve long-standing problems with the Vatican over church land and taxes and to ease visa restrictions for Catholic clergy.
Israel has rescinded travel privileges for some Arab Christian clergy, citing security concerns.
Benedict raised the issues Monday when he received Israel's new ambassador to the Holy See.
Ambassador Mordechay Lewy told the pope that Israel is committed to strengthening the ancient Christian communities and wants to settle the outstanding issues with the Vatican.
Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
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