When someone as noteworthy as Pope Benedict XVI decided to make statements about Islam with references to evil he really should have prepared himself for the repercussions.

In Sept. Pope Benedict gave a speech at a German university where he said “Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached.” (www.newyorktimes.com) Benedict made it clear that he was quoting someone in his speech but using Muhammad and evil in the same sentence is not something that will elicit a positive response.

The pope should not have made the comments and his apology was a nice gesture, but it did not prevent the protesting in the streets and other strong reactions. He should have been prepared for a response because he is a public figure and his speeches are heard by a lot of people.

Of course he apologized, because if he did not then there would be even more aggravation from the Muslim community and others.

The pope was “deeply sorry” for his controversial remarks about Islam that caused offence, according to Vatican Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone. The apology felt incomplete in this circumstance and what was missing was a retraction. Wait, what was really missing was a personal apology from the pope and not a statement from Bertone. Sure, Pope Benedict respects Islam, but if you are sorry for something come out and say so, do not have someone else do it for you. He should have been clear if he was apologizing for the statement or the reactions.

Prior to his speech Benedict should have taken the time to reflect on the Danish cartoon incident. Muslims have been under public scrutiny for several years and it’s almost like they are the kid on the playground who is constantly teased. So, it should not come as a surprise to the pope that his inflammatory comments caused an eruption of frustration resulting in chaos, violence, and protests. Do not throw in evil references about the Islamic community, even if you are the pope, because the response won’t be positive.

A sincere apology from Pope Benedict would have been a proper approach to amend the situation because, as a public figure, it is crucial to take responsibility for statements made while addressing the public.