Bolivia: Pope Francis pops into fast food outlet to change for Mass

Huge crowds greeted Pope Francis as he was driven through Santa Cruz, Bolivia today. By the time the popemobile reached Christ the Redeemer Square where Pope Francis was expected to celebrate Mass, his escorts realised the Holy Father would need somewhere to put on his vestments.

They rushed ahead and asked at a nearby Burger King, which was closed, whether they could use the premises for a short time. Manager Alfredo Troche said he was only too happy to oblige.

Later the company wasted no time in letting the world know of the papal visit. Even before Mass had ended, the restaurant put a post on Facebook welcoming Pope Francis and thanking him "for choosing the BK restaurant as your sacristy.

It reads: "Bienvenido Papa Francisco, gracias por elegir el restaurante BK EL Cristo como tu Sacristía. Burger King Bolivia te recibe con los brazos abiertos... which translated as: Welcome Pope Francisco, Thanks for choosing the restaurant BK THE Christ as your Sacristy. Burger King Bolivia welcomes you with open arms.

The entry also included an image showing Pope Francis under a Burger King logo and the words: "There are visits that don't just bring joy to your spirit, but also feed it."

Source: VIS/Facebook/BBC