Popes have always kissed children - haven't they? Obviously, it would be different if the parents were not there positively encouraging the kissing/hugging/blessing, but it was in front of thousands of other 'faithful' so I can't see the problem. It's a religious thing, so very different from a politician who, historically, kiss babies and children to gain votes. The parents have obviously been won over already. BTW I am not RC or of any particular religious persuasion, so I have no axe to grind. I just don't think the Pope being gentle and embracing a child, is particularly a problem. It's what is read into it by those who want to read something into it. (Could we have a dove of peace emoticon please!)