Pope Benedict XVI, who is German born and 82 years old, began an eight day pilgrimage to the Holy Land.  The Pope, who is leader of the world’s 1.1 billion Catholics, said he will be a “pilgrim of peace”.  He departed from Rome on a special flight to Amman and will then begin his trip to Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian territories.  He will face a variety of difficult religious and political challenges during his trip. 

The Pope will first meet King Abdullah, then visit a center for the handicapped.  He is expected to discuss the issue of Iraq’s Christian minority during his trip.  Pope Benedict will also speak to Palestinians at a refugee camp in Bethlehem and visit Mount Nebor, where the Bible says God showed Moses the Promised Land.