The Holy Father put together an event today to raffle off gifts he received from the countless admiring Catholics around the globe. Tickets were sold at $12.50 a piece and proceeds will be donated to charity.
Examples of prizes won were a camera, leather suitcase, coffee machine and a Fiat Panda vehicle.
The Holy Father received praise, people have commented how he makes an excellent example for other leaders. The Obamas, for instance, are given plenty of pricey items regularly, especially when they host world leaders in the White House.
"Gifts can be a minefield for elected leaders," claimed Jenna Johnson at The Washington Post.
It is unlawful for the US President to personally keep the items. Obama is required by law to hand over the gifts to the National Archives or other reputable organizations. In the event the US President wants to keep an item, he must pay a fair market value for it. The gifts received by American politicians are listed by the US State Department annually.
Author of the book "Lead with Humility: 12 Leadership Lessons from Pope Francis" Jerry Krames called the Holy Father "a fearless reformer" and someone who puts the needs of other people before his own.
While only 13 gifts were raffled plus 30 consolation prizes, the Vatican pointed out that the whole point of the event was to spread the message of love and practicality.