"The fact that Fazil Say, who insulted the holy values of the three Abrahamic religions, is a famous person doesn't make the crime less important, nor does it justify it, " Mr. Bukagili's statement said.

WSJ: Turkish Pianist Receives Suspended Jail Sentence

In the context of Christmas and the Holy Year of Redemption, I was able to meet with the person that you all know by name, Ali Agca, who in the year 1981 on 13 May made an attempt on my life.

BBC: The Pope has strong views on a number of issues

Elsewhere, at least one person was killed and seven were wounded when a car bomb exploded near an outdoor market in the Shiite holy city of Najaf, south of Baghdad, Iraqi police officials said.

CNN: Iraqi leader sounds warning about sectarian strife