The Substitute

Cardinal and Rabbi in Golf Carts

The Pope met with his cardinals to discuss a proposal from the prime minister of Israel.

"Your Holiness," said one of the Cardinals, "The Israeli prime minister wants to challenge you to a game of golf to show the friendship and ecumenical spirit shared by the Jewish and Catholic faiths."

The Pope thought it was a good idea, but he had never held a golf club in his life. "Have we not," he asked, "a cardinal who can represent me against the leader of Israel?"

"None that plays golf very well," a cardinal replied. "But ..." he said, deep in thought, "what if we offered to make Jack Nicklaus a cardinal? We can offer to make him a cardinal, then ask him to play the Israeli prime minister as your personal representative. In addition to showing our spirit of cooperation, we'll also win the match."

Everyone agreed it was a good idea. The call was made. Nicklaus was greatly honored and agreed to play.

The day after the match, Nicklaus reported to the Vatican to inform the Pope of the result.

"I have some good news and some bad news, Your Holiness," said Nicklaus.

"Tell me the good news first, Cardinal Nicklaus," said the Pope.

"Well, Your Holiness, I don't like to brag, but even though I've played some pretty terrific rounds of golf in my life, this was the best I have ever played, by far. I must have been inspired from above. My drives were long and true, my irons were accurate and purposeful and my putting was perfect. With all due respect, my play was truly miraculous."

"There's bad news?" the Pope asked.

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Nicklaus sighed. "Rabbi Woods beat me by two strokes."

About the Author Phil Lancaster

I'm a passionate golfer and, like many amateur golfers, swing between love and frustration. Love because nothing beats the satisfaction of a sweet round played on a challenging course under a beautiful sky in the open air. Frustration when nothing seems to go right. The duffed shot off the tee, the slice that results in a lost ball, the missed 3 foot putt and even just not playing to your handicap. This site is aimed at helping you with articles that provide you with knowledge and advice, along with research and recommendations into clubs, accessories and clothing. May all your drives be straight down the middle of the fairway.

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