by FFE Entertainment News staff

Pope Francis’ small act of kindness in St. Peter’s Square touched onlookers and went viral online, strengthening his image as ‘the people’s pope.’

An ailing man approached the pope after Wednesday’s General Audience and asked for his blessing. But the pontiff gave more than that — he kissed and embraced the worshipper who was covered with tumours from a rare genetic, non-contagious disease called neurofibromatosis.

Among the Italian press, the pope’s act was likened to his namesake St. Francis of Assisi who, according to legend, kissed a leper he met after receiving a message from God.

Pope Francis’ embrace is also a continuation of the Catholic papal tradition called the greeting of the sick.