Pope Francis on Saturday joined photo-sharing social media platform, Instagram.
In his first picture message launching the page, the leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics could be seen kneeling, with the caption: “Pray for me”.
The pontiff, who already has around 27 million social media followers across several Twitter accounts, is on Instagram as Franciscus.
So great is the love for the Pope that, few hours after the account went online, 405,000 users had started following the account.
The pope had intimated his Twitter followers of his decision to open an Instagram account…
I am beginning a new journey, on Instagram, to walk with you along the path of mercy and the tenderness of God.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) March 19, 2016
The Instagram account is believed to be aimed at young people within the traditionally-conservative church.