Blue Diamond, from out west, sent this one...

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 not only catholics, but people of all faiths throughout the entire world.

As the pope approached the gates of heaven, it was St. Peter who greeted him in a firm embrace:

"Welcome your holiness, your dedication and unselfishness in serving your fellow man during your entire 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 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 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."

St. Peter immediately ushered the priest 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 saints and angels came running. There they found the pope pointing to a single parchment, repeating over and over, "There's an R, there's an R, there's an R..."

"What's the matter, sir?" asked the Saints and Angels.

"There's an R... There's an R !" exclaimed the priest. "It's celibRate!"