I'm sure it's been mentioned before, but just a quick thought upon seeing another pick of Pope Palpatine riding around in his popemobile...   Isn't it obvious that even he doesn't believe in God if he's that worried about being assassinated?  Wouldn't "God" protect him if he's supposed to be "His" emissary on Earth? Contrary wise, if it's his time to go, wouldn't "God" make it happen no matter ho…