Instead, the pope often took a scholarly approach to public speaking, using discursive and, at times, provocative prose to tackle complex and divisive issues, ranging from the use of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV, to the West's relations with the Muslim world.

WSJ: Pope Defended Church Teachings

Instead, the pope has often taken a scholarly approach to public speaking, using discursive and, at times, provocative prose to tackle complex and divisive issues, ranging from the use of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV, to the West's relations with the Muslim world.

WSJ: Pope Moved to Build Church's Spiritual Life