The Next Vatican Idol?

"Pope Benedict Modeling For Album Cover"

For those who do their Christmas shopping early... the American Idols are not the only ones to be singing the summer away! Pope Benedict XVI is releasing the first ever music album by a pope. The Christmas Album will be available just in time for the Holidays and is expected to go platinum.

Coming from Abbey Road studios this may be a first: it features the pope praying as well as singing. Geffen/Universal says Pope Benedict's album will include eight original pieces of contemporary classical music. The pontiff will sing and recite prayers to the Virgin Mary.

Benedict will be accompanied by the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome, as recorded in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. The original compositions are performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, recorded at London's Abbey Road.
Proceeds from the as-yet-untitled album will help fund music education for underprivileged children around the world. CBS News & A.P.

Album Available November 30th