THE PONTIFF HAS got in on the act.

While meeting-and-greeting a group of young Italian pilgrims at St Peter’s Basilica earlier this week, Pope Francis got involved in what has become known as the first papal selfie.

Fabio M. Ragona via Twitter

“There is no marketing behind these actions. The pope clearly likes being with people while his predecessor liked being with books,” said Beppe Severgnini, columnist for the Corriere della Sera daily.

The picture was taken in the same week that the word ‘selfie’ was included in the Oxford English Dictionary.

So, are selfies OK now that the Pope has endorsed them?

DailyEdge.ie: ‘Dog S**t Selfie’ is a new and horrible online trend

Related: Omnishambles, twerk and dad dancing make the Oxford dictionary

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

The Pope is OK with selfies

DailyEdge.ie: ‘Dog S**t Selfie’ is a new and horrible online trend

Related: Omnishambles, twerk and dad dancing make the Oxford dictionary

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.