10,000 Catholics 'de-baptise' themselves due to Pope's comments- thoughts on this?

[lazybones]

Whether they realise it or not (or even care), renouncing their baptismal vows is a public rejection of Christ and His redemptive sacrifice for them individually. Like you correctly said, one can't un-baptise oneself but rejecting baptism is a very strong statement to make. It won't hurt the Pope but it may have a large effect for the persons themselves.

The Vatican/RCC is not here to suit the needs and desires of people. RCC exists to be the physical representative of God on Earth; it serves to show the correct, safest and 'easiest' way to live a life in harmony with the Gospel. RCC keeps it's focus on God, not on fads and current trends.
Good or bad is not my place to call.....
Some members have lost respect due to the actions of some Church members.
I like the Pope and I'd like to read more of his writings- he's a very, very intelligent man.
Benedict...strict?? He is a very gentle man but he knows the truth and does not deviate from it. If that is incorrectly perceived by you as harsh and bullying, maybe he's not the prejudiced one? The Church places God's approval over the approval of Man.
In Western Society, it appears to be declining but Christ is the man who raises the dead, so I have no great fear for the Church.