VATICAN CITY, Holy See — Pope Francis apologized Wednesday for slapping a woman who had grabbed him as he greeted a crowd of devotees, shortly before he delivered a speech denouncing "every form of violence against women." The image of a visibly annoyed Francis slapping his way free from the clutches of an admirer as he walked by Catholic faithful on New Year's Eve instantly went viral on social media. The 83-year-old pope grimaced and scowled before managing to break free, slapping her hand twice as a security guard intervened. The blessing of God for all, he said, was "not magic but requires patience, patience and love." The pope is known to enjoy greeting the public, and also has a reputation for speaking his mind and having a determined temperament.

Source: Philippine Star January 02, 2020 00:45 UTC