It is intersting how these comments may say more about the ones who are making them than the Pope they are talking about:
Iran’s powerful former president Hashemi Rafsanjani – “They (the Vatican) should shout at America loudly. They should tell the Americans that the crimes they commit are discrediting Jesus because they are getting the vote of the American people in the name of Jesus and the church,” Rafsanjani told thousands of worshippers.
“Popes cannot preach the teachings of Jesus and ignore the crimes committed by the U.S. throughout the world.”
Iranian President Khatami– While Khatami has expressed deep sorrow, saying the “pope was a devotee of peace, justice and righteousness,” Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has remained silent, apparently on purpose.
Bill Clinton– The pontiff leaves a mixed legacy.