The cardinal and Dr. Mohammed Sayed Tantawi, the Grand Mufti of Egypt, pose for photographers following their meeting on New Year’s Day.

Cardinal O’Connor greets Rabbi David Rosen of the Anti-Defamation League of B’nai B’rith.

The cardinal met with a variety of political leaders as well. Here he chats with the Palestinian mayor of Bethlehem, Elias Freij.

As with every meeting, the Lebanese press corps relentlessly pursued the cardinal. Here he speaks following a conference with Beirut’s ranking Orthodox leader, Metropolitan Elias Audi.

The cardinal takes time from his busy schedule to visit with a child.