No sex or beer please, we're Polish

The visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Poland this week is likely to bring out the inner Catholic in even the most secular bureaucrat, but those governing Polish public television are not taking any chances.

TVP has called in a group of priests to scrutinize its content in order to make sure the broadcaster transmits no programs or advertisements deemed unsuitable or scandalous during Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Poland. Viewers will not see commercials for beer or underwear, nor are they likely to see TV spots advertising bras, sanitary towels or contraception. Admirers of young, beautiful bodies will also be disappointed, as there will probably be no nudity shown during the Pope's visit.

TVP claims that the self-censorship was not motivated by pressure from politicians or the Church, but out of "respect for the sublime character of the religious event." A similar policy was undertaken during the pilgrimages of the late Pope John Paul II. Private broadcasters, who rely on commercials, are also considering limiting content that might be considered improper.

Bar owners will also have plenty of free time on their hands to watch the Pope celebrate mass, as the government has decided that no alcohol will be sold or served in cities on the day the Pope pays a visit. The Minister of Education, Roman Giertych, won a free day on May 26 for students, so they can take part in or watch the broadcast of the Pope's mass, which will take place at Warsaw's Plac Piłsudskiego. Those working in ministries, state offices and administration can also count on a day off and another long weekend.