There was a Pope who was greatly loved by all of his
followers, a man who led with gentleness, faith and wisdom. His
passing was grieved by the entire world, Catholic or not.
As the Pope approached the gates of heaven, it was Saint
Peter who greeted him in a firm embrace.
"Welcome your holiness, your dedication and unselfishness in
serving your fellow man during your life has earned you great
stature in heaven. You may pass through the gates without delay
and are granted free access to all parts of heaven."
"You are also granted an open door policy and may at your
own discretion meet with any heavenly leader, including the
Father without prior appointment."
"Is there anything which your holiness desires?"
"Well yes," the Pope replied. "I have often pondered some
of the mysteries which have puzzled and confounded theologians
through the ages. Are there perhaps any transcripts which
recorded the actual conversations between God and the prophets of
old? I would love to see what was actually said, without the
dimming of memories over time."
Saint Peter immediately ushered the Pope to the heavenly
library and explained how to retrieve the various documents. The
Pope was thrilled and settled down to review the history of man's
relationship with God.
Two years later a scream of anguish pierced the stacks of
the library.
Immediately several of the Saints and Angels came running to
the Pope's side to learn the cause of his dismay.
There they found the Pope pointing to a single word on a
parchment, Repeating over and over, "There's an 'R', There's an
'R'!!!"
"Look, the word is celibrate, not celibate!"