..and he’s asking for a 20pound “donation” to see him? Uh-huh..
Cofton Park (just one of the venues the Pope is visiting) doesn’t come free. Only security is paid for by the UK taxpayer (as the Pope was invited by the UK Prime Minister) - pretty much everything else has to come out of the UK parishes.
Remember that the Catholic Church in Britain is not supported either by state or local taxes (as opposed to e.g. the Anglican church). It’s either our money or he can’t come.
Bottom line: I’m paying for two local parishioners to go, and I’m glad to do it.