Cardinal George Pell was seen digging into a hearty beef steak helped down with a beer last month - and the people at PETA aren't pleased.
After recent health concerns that prevented the Catholic official from flying back to Australia to front the Royal Commission into Child Sexual abuse, the Australian branch of the animal rights organisation took it upon themselves to suggest he kickstart a new diet plan.
Along with a “get well soon” card, PETA sent a copy of their that outlines meat and dairy free recipes for reformed carnivores.
The not so subtle nudge was accompanied with this letter:
“Dear Cardinal Pell,
After hearing you succumbed to the temptation of animal flesh, the PETA team thought you might appreciate some "bovine intervention". Not only will consuming meat clog your arteries with cholesterol and saturated fat, it's also been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer, diabetes and strokes. We hope you will instead use this vegetarian/vegan starter kit to start eating from the Garden of Eden so that you will be in good health the next time you are called on to fly to Australia.
From the bottom of our healthy vegan hearts,
PETA Australia”
Cardinal Pell, who is Australia’s most senior Catholic, was due to appear before the Royal Commission earlier this year but due to concerns he may be at risk of heart failure while travelling, he gave his testimony via video link from Rome.
Although supported by a detailed two-page medical report, his inability to return home angered many including comedian Tim Minchin who penned a controversial (and rather catchy) song.
If going vegan isn't for the Cardinal, he could try following a diet similar to the Pope's which is said to be rather frugal and includes plenty of fruit, salads and skinless chicken, according to a 2009 profile by .
During his recent visit to New York meanwhile, he only requested still water and bananas in his room and under doctor's orders ate mostly fish and white rice.
