So Dan Brown would like to meet the pope ^[1]. I imagine the conversation would be more awkward than an episode of The Office. Perhaps it would go something like this:

Dan Brown: It sure is an honor for you to meet me, Mr. Pope.

Pope Benedict: I am always happy to meet one of God’s precious children.

DB: You know, of course, that the whole Da Vinci Code business wasn’t personal. I mean, it was just a novel, after all…even though everything in it was true.

PB: What was that?

DB: Oh, nothing important. Also, those Opus Dei guys aren’t still sore, are they? It was all in fun, you know.

PB: I am sure that they are praying for you and only wish you the best.

DB: That sure is sporting of them. I hear that you wrote a book or two as well, including one about Jesus. Is that true?

PB: Yes, Jesus of Nazareth was about the historical reality that is the God-man. It explains that all the evidence clearly points to the historical reliability of the Gospels, and that we can trust their accuracy. We have been made for God and every person can find complete fulfillment by giving their lives to Jesus Christ.

DB: (silence)

DB: So, did you read my latest book yet? It’s another best-seller.

PB: I have not had time to read it. I hope and pray that it lifts people’s hearts and minds to contemplation of divine realities.

DB: That’s not exactly what I intended, but it sure is a page-turner! Well, it has been great chatting with you, your popiness.

PB: May God bless you and bring you closer to Him, my son.