On Sunday, Pope Benedict baptized a Muslim writer, Magdi Allam, into the Catholic faith. The high-profile conversion took place at the Easter Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica. As converted Muslims are often targeted by a fatwa, Allam was pragmatic about his future: "I realize what I am going up against but I will confront my fate with my head high, with my back straight and the interior strength of one who is certain about his faith."

Naturally, congratulations for Allam have poured in from all corners of the world. 23/6 opens a few envelopes.