Don't try this at home

Well, when it rains, it pours: Father Daniel Rupp of Barton, Vermont has decided to race in a demolition derby to raise $6,000 and send his Catholic school teachers to Rome. Known for his, ahem, unorthodox approach to fundraising--Rupp has raffled pigs and sold roses at his parish--the priest plans to sell sponsorships; sponsors names will appear on Rupp's car, the "Vicar General" (gag!). The local funeral home has already signed up, though Rupp admits they have the most to gain if his race is, well, let's say unsuccessful.

The response by diocesan officials was measured, acording to the Burlington Free Press: "He knows that in doing something so worthwhile, that God will watch out for him," said the Rev. Peter Routhier, vicar general of the diocese. "There'll be a number of people praying this will be safe -- and that it's the only time he does this."

Worthwhile or not, I for one would not want to have to explain myself to St. Peter having died in a stock car race--in the middle of a priest shortage at that!