HOLY SEE – Continuing the trend of his liberal reign as Catholicism’s spiritual leader, Pope Francis I has announced that he will be giving up celibacy for Lent this year.
As modern tradition dictates, Catholics are to spend the 40-day period leading up to Easter abstaining from an act that gives them pleasure in order to strengthen their bonds with God.
“I get plenty of pleasure from my celibacy,” stated the pontiff in a recent interview. “Sex just complicates things. It’s going to be a tough 40 days, and I know I’m going to be tempted to not have sex, but resisting this temptation will bring me closer to the Holy Spirit, and set an example for all Christians.”
Some observers and cardinals doubt the Pope’s ability to follow through on his commitment.
“I’ve know this Pope Francis for years,” said Cardinal Batone. “He tried to give up bacon last year and quit halfway through. The guy loves celibacy, he won’t last a week. He can’t abstain from abstinence.”
