Corporate synergy invades the pope’s upcoming visit to Spain :

So, although Jesus managed to feed the 5,000 with a handful of loaves and a couple of fish, the Spanish bishops have turned to McDonald’s. Those who buy top-price tickets will have not just lunch, but also dinner provided by the burger chain. The meals are to include “a burger, fries, soft drink and an ice-cream or baked apple pie”, according to the You Will be My Witnesses website.

The tie-in between McDonald’s and the church comes at a time when both need help. McDonald’s last year said it was to shut 175 restaurants worldwide. Madrid’s Cardinal Rouco Varela, meanwhile, said recently that while most Spaniards are still nominally Roman Catholic, fewer than 40% follow the church’s doctrine.

Also, the Pope’s sermon will be an examination of God’s commandment “thou shalt not steal” with a demonstration by Grimace and the Hamburglar.