Pope eager to reach out to Jews at synagogue

ROME: Pope Benedict XVI yesterday acknowledged problems between Catholic and Jews, but insisted there was "great respect" between the two religions, hours before a controversial visit to a Rome synagogue.

The visit has divided Jewish groups because of Benedict's praise and push toward sainthood of wartime pontiff Pius XII, who some critics contend didn't do enough to save Jews during the Holocaust. The Vatican defends Pius, maintaining he used behind-the-scenes diplomacy in a bid to save Jewish lives.

Several prominent Jews have said they will boycott the visit.