A theological seminary student from Rome was making visits to see Catholic cathedrals around the World. While visiting the United States, he went to see St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Whilst marveling at its beauty, he noticed a pay-phone on a wall just inside the nave. Above it was a sign “Talk direct to God - $ 200”. He spoke to a priest who confirmed that indeed he could talk direct to God for $200.

His next stop was Manila, Philippines and its Cathedral-Basilica. As he entered the venerable building, again he noticed a pay-phone and a sign saying “Talk direct to God – Php 9,500/US$ 200”. The priest there confirmed it was indeed true.

He next visited La Basilique du Sacré Coeur in Paris, France. There again, he saw a pay-phone and a sign saying “Talk direct to God – EUR 130/US$ 200”. Again, the priest confirmed it was real.

Lastly, he visited St Andrews RC Cathedral in Glasgow, Scotland. On entering he saw the now-familiar pay-phone, but this time the sign said “Talk direct to God - £3.50/US$5”. Totally surprised, he stopped a passing priest. He said “Father, I’ve been all round the World looking at churches and I’ve seen pay-phones just like this, but they all say ‘Talk direct to God - $ 200’ but yours says it costs only $ 5 – why is that ?”.

The priest smiled and replied “It’s a local call”.