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From the NewsMax.com Staff
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For the story behind the story...
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Monday, Aug. 22, 2005 7:04 p.m. EDT
$15M Bill to Protect Gibson, Pope
Sydney, Australia, will spend over $15 million protecting two of the world’s most famous Catholics, Pope Benedict XVI and Mel Gibson, when the city hosts World Youth Day in 2008.
More than 350,000 young Catholics are expected to visit Sydney during the six-day event, which will be sponsored by the Vatican.
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A Gibson-directed recreation of the last days of Christ in the streets of Sydney was a major selling point in the city’s successful bid for the event, Australia’s Daily Telegraph reports.
The recreation by Gibson – who directed "The Passion of the Christ” – could involve more than 100 actors. The event would also feature a parade by the Pope through the city.
The Vatican hopes it can recoup some of the $60 million it will spend hosting the event through sponsorships. Taxpayers in the state of New South Wales, where Sydney is located, will foot the $15 million bill for security and logistical support, according to the Telegraph.
The state’s Premier Morris Iemma described Youth Day as "Olympics without the sport.”
Editor's note:
Mel Gibson’s new book "The Passion" – FREE Offer – Click Here Now!
Mel Gibson, Patricia Heaton, Bo Derek, Tom Selleck Make "Hollywood Heroes" – Click Here Now
The Pope’s New Book Is Shocking Europe – Read It! FREE OFFER – Click Here Now
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