To think that someone should tell the Pope...

Popes have always kissed children - haven't they? Obviously, it would be different if the parents were not there positively encouraging the kissing/hugging/blessing, but it was in front of thousands of other 'faithful' so I can't see the problem. It's a religious thing, so very different from a politician who, historically, kiss babies and children to gain votes. The parents have obviously been won over already. BTW I am not RC or of any particular religious persuasion, so I have no axe to grind. I just don't think the Pope being gentle and embracing a child, is particularly a problem. It's what is read into it by those who want to read something into it. (Could we have a dove of peace emoticon please!)

Gally you have just said everything that I was going to. This story is a non starter.

I'm not a Catholic but can't understand why the anger and outrage?

I am not angered or outraged. I just don't understand why anyone would want strangers kissing their child.

if you were an Italian mother having the Pope kissing your child would be one of the high points of your life. Probably you would have to be Italian to think of dressing the poor child up as a Pope - over here it would probably be Spider Man.

It clearly wasn't a high point for the child.

I think the mother went to a lot of trouble to get herself noticed. It was nice to see this new pope just wearing a white jacket and not a frock.

I'm just musing on what the take is on men wearing kilts or kameez or academic gowns. Or are these 'frocks' too.

Loved your comment deedaa...lol

I thought it was more disconcerting seeing the child dressed up as the pope!!!

I thought the Pope costume was a bit much, but as Mishap said better that than the flagellation and bloodletting they enjoy in the South.