The Pope

Hmm.... I haven't really felt the usual strong emotions over this unquestionnably important event... Usually I get very righteous about things like this (maybe even self-righteous at times).

Without a shadow of a doubt, the Pope (and by default the Catholic Church as an institution) has had a very negative impact inareas of the world - whether that's by denouncing condoms, gay people, or the ordination of female bishops. He is indirectly responsible for a lot of human suffering and even deaths. But the religion he epitomises has done tremendous good over the many centuries - giving billions of people hope and comfort, and promoting love and compassion.

I don't know - maybe I'm just too cynical these days, but we see corrupt and pretty nasty politicans, heads of state and dignataries visit the UK all the time. Is there a massive protest every time a Saudi politician visits, organised by those concerned by women's rights? No.

Maybe that's what I'm concerned about. I fully support the protestors in rallying against a lot of what the Pope stands for - I just wish we stood up for a lot of other stuff as well, rather than the fashionable issue of the day. I'll always remember visiting the huge rally in Trafalgar Square protesting over the Israeli invasion of Gaza in December 2008 - it was a big affair I recall; thousands attended. I went for a quick walk over the road, passed the Zimbabwean Embassy. Only 10 or 20 people were protesting outside.

I think this is important - whilst the situation in the Middle East is beyond a disgrace and travesty of justice, we need to remind ourselves that there is an awful lot to get angry about that ISN'T reported every day in the press, but which shouldn't be forgotten about or brushed under the carpet.

Good luck to everyone this weekend - whether you are Catholics seeking a glimmer of His Holiness, or protestors trying to make your voice heard. Let's just remember that - come Monday - the world will still be turning, and there will still be too many people in the world needing a voice. Let's give it to them.