Ignatz, one of the most scandalous events during Benedict's 'reign' was the Synod on the Eucharist in Rome with over 300 Bishops in attendance. One of its main remits was to look at solving the problem of providing the Eucharist for millions of Catholics around the world who did not have regular access to it. The ordination of women or of married men would have solved the problem (and many others) over night. Benedict made it clear that such solutions were NOT up for discussion.

The Bishops stayed in Rome in the plush 5star St Marthas 'hotel'. They mooted the possibility of reopening Junior Seminaries (!!) but eventually agreed on the status quo, no change.

On the last day they gathered for a sumptuous meal to close the Synod. The Tablet published the menu which involved three different wines, one a champagne, to go with each course. At the end of the meal Benedict spoke, "It was not unintentional that Jesus chose the image of a banquet as presaging heaven.."

The poor stiffed again.