Recalling Benedict’s Grace But Also The Storms

ROME (AP) – Longtime Associated Press Vatican correspondent Victor L. Simpson recalls the graciousness of Pope Benedict XVI. He says Benedict always seemed ready to offer a handshake or a comment appropriate for the occasion. But Simpson says Benedict would stand his ground and often would not back down, whatever the outside pressure He also seemed almost oblivious to the storms he would create, such as when he gave a speech in 2008 aimed at promoting tolerance among religions but ended up provoking anger – and even some violence – in the Islamic community. Simpson covered the Vatican for over 30 years for the AP before his retirement.