re: Pope cuddling up to muslims

Catholics have generally not had the same level of issue with Muslims practicing Islam as Protestants have.

The difference comes from structure, theology and history. The Catholic Church has a central authority and, especially after the Second Vatican Council, officially teaches respect for Muslims as fellow monotheists.

Many Protestant groups have no central authority, so views vary widely. Some emphasize doctrine and conversion, which leads to stronger opposition to Islam.

There is also a cultural factor, especially in the States, where Islam is often seen through a political lens. Overall, Catholicism tends toward formal coexistence while Protestant attitudes depend on the specific group.

There's a difference between those who practice their faith and those who are fundamentalist terrorists.