Of course he had to...

...cancel his visit to the University. It was the only possible thing for Pope Benedict to do.

When students at La Sapienza University threatened to blare out loud rock music to drown the Pope's voice, and staff - albeit only a minority, but clearly an influential one - had signed a letter demanding that he not attend, and the whole thing looked as though it might turn into as shrieking mess, the only sane thing to do was withdraw. So it wasn't a "ban" that ensured that the Pope didn't speak at the University - it was the threat of mob behaviour. I am annoyed now that I referred to a "ban" in my letter, because the ban was created by the threat of mob violence rather than simply than by a letter of dis-invitation. But there we are.

Have you written to the University? The more letters they get, the easier it will be when they arrange for the Pope to come with proper dignity on a subsequent occasion, and the more strength it will give to the authorities to do and say the right things in the discussions which will continue over the next weeks. It is important - very important - that the University authorities know how offensive this has all been. And have you sent a message of support to the Pope? His email is benedictxvi@vatican.va

It's been great to see the surge of support for the Holy Father, especially from La Spaienza students with thjeir banners at the Wednesday Audience.