Pope's holiday in Australian prior to WYD2008

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Benedict will spend an extra three days holidaying in Australia prior to World Youth Day 2008 (WYD08), but those in the know about where the Pope will be putting his feet up are staying mum.

The Catholic Weekly reports that the Pope will undertake his longest trip to Australia, spending eight days here after arriving on July 13.

WYD08 co-ordinator Bishop Anthony Fisher said the recommended venue will be a location that is serene, beautiful and suitable for the leader of the world’s Catholics.

“He will have the opportunity to see some of Australia’s beautiful flora and fauna.”

So, where will the Pope be holidaying?

Perhaps these locations are on the short list:
* the Western Plains Zoo at Dubbo
* Nimbin
* Star City Casino
* Kings Cross
* God's waiting room (aka the NSW Central Coast)

A virgin birth?

Have organisers of the Catholic Church's World Youth Day 2008 achieved a small miracle with their selection of Sydney man Alfio Stuto to play the leading role in a performance of the Stations of the Cross?

Google reveals that before it was announced that Stuto, 27, was one of the four finalists in the running for the leading role he had no prior history in Googleland.

What? A 27 year old who doesn't have a Google track record?

Perhaps the Catholic church has pulled off the best long shot of the year. Then again, it could be that forces have been at work to ensure the church's selection has the appearance of a clean skin.