The Pope met with the College of Cardinals to discuss a proposal from Shimon
Peres, the former leader of Israel. "Your holiness," said one of the Cardinals,
"Mr. Peres wants to determine whether Jewish or Catholics are superior, by
challenging you to a golf match." The Pope was greatly disturbed, as he had
never held a golf club in his life.
"Not to worry," said the Cardinal,
"we'll call America and talk to Jack Nicklaus. We'll make him a Cardinal, he can
play Shimon Peres... We can't lose!" Everyone agreed it was a good idea. The
call was made and, of course, Jack was honored and agreed to play.
The
day after the match, Nicklaus reported to the Vatican to inform the Pope of his
success in the match. "I came in second, your Holiness," said Nicklaus.
"Second?!!" exclaimed the surprised Pope. "You came in second to Shimon
Peres?!!"
"No," said Nicklaus, "second to Rabbi Woods."