A prophylactic miracle

Who says there are no such things as miracles? Beyond any reasonable expectation, Pope Benedict has asked senior theologians and scientists to prepare a report on the use of condoms. The document will focus solely on their value as a prophylactic against AIDS; nonetheless, for a pope whose predecessor declared that "chastity and fidelity" were the only acceptable methods of combating the disease, this is major progress.

When not only priests and Catholic health care workers have been advocating the use of condoms in the struggle against AIDS, but even bishops and cardinals, the pressure apparently tipped Benedict into action.

Are the dominoes falling? If it's condoms for AIDS today, will it be for birth control tomorrow? The heavens tremble.