Nobody Expects the Spanish Inquisition!

Except, apparently, Stephen Hawking. Obeisance to Mark Shea for the link.

I highly doubt that the Pope said "it's OK," let alone the rest. Considering that many rad-trads and fundies anathematize John Paul II for opening the door to evolutionary theories, it's unlikely that any of his remarks, particularly to a group of scientists, would manifest such a draconian fear of inquiring into the beginning of all things.

What I do know the late, great Pope to have said is this:

The Church does not fear the progress of science. She undertakes willingly a dialogue with the created world and applauds the wonderful discoveries that scientists are making in that world. Every true scientist is for her a friend, and no branch of learning is shunned by her.

That having been said, I'm no great fan of Stephen Hawking, and don't mind him walking in fear of the wrath of God. And no, no pun intended. I'm not that insensitive.