Pope writes for Financial Times on Christmas at time of economic austerity
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In a first for a pope, Benedict XVI has written an article for a secular newspaper, advising in the Financial Times that Christmas is a time for serious thought.
The op-ed published Thursday says Christmas is a "time of great joy" and also "an occasion for deep reflection, even an examination of conscience."
Benedict has been a prolific writer throughout his career as a bishop, senior Vatican official and pope. The Vatican says he has previously written for an Italian religious affairs magazine and the weekly newspaper of his former diocese in Munich.
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It says in a statement the pope "willingly accepted" the newspaper's unusual request for his contribution.