Pope apologizes for “losing patience” after slapping an intrusive woman

Pope Francis apologized for having “lost patience” the night before when a woman shook his hand too hard on St Peter’s Square in Rome.

On a video, you can see how an Asian lady draws the church leader to her, after which the Argentinian clearly angrily slaps her hand. This provoked indignation on social media.

For the Angelus prayer, 83-year-old Francis apologized: “We lose our patience numerous times. That happens to me too. I apologize for my bad example.”

It is not the first time that the Pope rejects physical contact. In March, he pulled his hand away from several people who wanted to kiss his hand and ring. The Vatican later said that this was for hygienic reasons.