Pope Francis Catches Knitted Doll of Himself, Spreading Joy in St. Peter's Square

Vatican City, June 1, 2025 – Pope Francis displayed remarkable dexterity and good humor during his second general audience in St. Peter's Square today. While departing in the Popemobile, a small knitted doll, bearing a striking resemblance to the pontiff, was tossed into the air towards him. Instead of ignoring it, Pope Francis reacted swiftly, catching the doll with a smile. He then passed the unexpected gift to one of his aides, continuing his journey with a lighthearted wave. The incident, captured by a bystander on video, quickly spread across social media, showcasing the Pope's approachable nature and sense of humor. A Vatican spokesperson stated, "The Holy Father appreciates the affection shown by the faithful." The brief, unexpected interaction brought a moment of levity to the otherwise solemn event, and serves as a testament to Pope Francis's connection with the people.