Pope calls for release of Italian hostage
Pope Benedict XVI called Sunday for the release of an Italian hostage held in Afghanistan, while that nation’s foreign minister expressed optimism the woman’s captivity would have a “peaceful, happy ending.” Benedict made the comments from his studio window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, jammed with tens of thousands of people for his Sunday blessing. They interrupted him with applause, prompting him to tell them: “I have something else to say!” Full Story