The Pope has been recorded refusing to allow Catholics to kiss his papal ring.

He was greeting people after mass in the Italian town of Loreto when the footage was taken.

The Vatican has not commented on why Pope Francis refused to let people kiss the ring, an act which symbolises respect for the church.

The video has sparked debate amongst Catholics, with some condemning the Pope’s behaviour and others supporting him.

Pope Francis really doesn’t want anyone kissing his ring.
This from today, after Mass … pic.twitter.com/CZUO8ppNfo

— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) March 25, 2019