It was nearly impossible to turn on the TV this weekend and not see the pope.

We got to watch him sitting in his chair praying, greeting fans, rebuking predatory clergy, or singing mildly off key.

For a pope who is frequently described as "not as charismatic as his predecessor," Benedict pulled in the crowds.

There hasn't been so much flowing white since Madonna rolled around on stage in her wedding dress.

But Americans seemed to need some face time with Pope Benedict XVI.

With gas prices rising as a result of the falling US dollar, and no end in sight, things are little shaky.

After invading a country, overthrowing its government, and waging a senseless war that has left thousands of Americans and Iraqis dead or wounded - did we need a little reassurance?

Perhaps a little forgiveness, too?

We've been bad, very bad. And we're feeling guilty.

Maybe some kind of group penance will square things - a thousand Hail Marys for each of us? $4-a-gallon gas by Memorial Day?

Or Senator John McCain as president?

Ah, God has a sense of humor.