The Pope Benedict 16 said rightly. Islam is religion which is spreading by force of sword and fire. IMO Muslims reaction to the Pope’s word proves the fact.
I think the analogy with Muslims violence during cartoon scandal (mass protest actions, disorders) fits here well. We are witnessing similar events presently. Muslims are setting on the fire Catholic and Orthodox Churches in Middle East. What do you think is better: to react by such violent actions to Pope’s announcement or by official declaration trying to change public opinion about Islam. Imo the second variant makes sense while the first only helps to aggravate tensions. Crazy Muslims choose path of violence ‘cause.
Unfortunately Muslims movements prove Pope’s words. Islam is warlike religion and it’s been spreading at rapid tempo all over the world. Moreover any word of criticism towards Prophet Muhammad is always perceived as personal insult by most Muslims. And they are always ready to react vigorously and spill the offender’s blood. And the offender is a non-Muslim at hand. It will be foolish to suppose that after this accident Muslims will be trying to show for the World that Pope was not right. Well, I think that all what they can do that burn, plunder and kill!