Saturday, June 26, 2010

Pontiff's £20-million visit marked with new book: The Pope Is Not Gay!

An international publishing house will mark Pope Benedict XVI's controversial £20-million visit to the UK with the release of a new tongue-in-cheek book entitled the Pope Is Not Gay!

Written by poet Angelo Quattrocchi, who died in 2009, the 192-page book (pictured) is billed by Verso publishers as "an urgent attack on the Pope's homophobia."

The book has been rushed to press in time for the Pontiff's forthcoming, state-funded visit to the UK between 16-19 September - which is costing tax payers £20 million.

In it, Quattrocchi - who worked as a scriptwriter for both the BBC and Channel 4 - pokes fun at the Pope's penchant for ermine-lined hats, extravagant cassocks and red Prada shoes.

Pope Benedict XVI caused outrage last month when he condemned gay marriage in a public address to half a million people. During his speech at the 13 May annual mass at Fatima’s Sanctuary in Portugal, the 83-year-old told crowds that marriage should be between a man and a woman.

He described gay marriage as the “most insidious and dangerous challenges that today confront the common good," before going on to express appreciation for anti-abortion campaigners.

The Pope Is Not Gay! is released on 5 July, priced £8.99.

SIC: PN