VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Benedict ushered in the New Year on Tuesday by criticizing policies that undermine the traditional family, saying they eroded one of the most important foundations for peace in the world.
The Pontiff, delivering a traditional New Year prayer for peace, appeared to take a swipe at efforts in several countries to grant legal recognition to gay and unwed couples -- although he did not single out any policies by name.
He said the traditional family led by a husband and wife instilled values that promote peace, and added it was an "irreplaceable" institution....