The Vatican spokesman has responded to many questions in regard to why Pope Francis prevented people from kissing his ring in a video that has now gone viral.
According to Alessandro Gisotti, the pope did this for hygienic reasons. This is because there was a very long line of people, and he wanted to avoid the spread of germs.
This isn't the first time he has removed his hand, but it is perhaps the most striking example.
Pope Francis has no problem caressing the sick and receiving hugs. However, he tries to avoid what seems courteous or aristocratic.
For this reason, the pope often uses strong gestures, such as this, in order to show that he doesn't want to be treated differently.
