The pinnacle religious figure, Pope Francis, delivers a powerful address. - The Vatican hosts more than 100 comedians.
On Friday morning, Pope Francis (87) greeted a collection of international comedy artists at the Vatican. The lineup included German humor makers Annette Frier, Meltem Kaptan, Till Reiner, and Torsten Sträter along with Michael Mittermeier (58), as well as the famed Swiss stand-up comedian Hazel Brugger (30). Moreover, numerous esteemed American entertainers were there, like Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock, Stephen Colbert, Conan O'Brien, and Whoopi Goldberg.
Michael Mittermeier hands Pope Francis a German National Soccer Team Uniform with "Franziskus" on it
Pope Francis addressed the humorists in a brief speech, emphasizing that in times of distress, they hold the ability to lift spirits and spread cheer. He explained that laughter is a potent antidote against selfishness and isolation, as revealed by "Vatican News."
Bavarian entertainer Michael Mittermeier gifted the Holy Father a contemporary, pink German National Soccer Team uniform. It bore the name "Franziskus" and the number 10. Before presenting the uniform, Mittermeier quipped on SWR Kultur, "At particular moments, this could be my most crucial performance. I'm contending for a slot in heaven."
Torsten Straters (57), a comedian, said, "I initially thought it was a prank one of my peers had concocted when I received the invite." Meltem Kapatn (43), a comedian and actress, remarked, "I truly admire that the Vatican places such significance on humor, giving a forum and emphasizing its worth in our modern-day society."
After the Pope's speech, the 107 invited attendees from 15 different countries had an opportunity to meet him. Conan O'Brien (61), a previous late-night host, observed, "My encounter with Francis was brisk, and he spoke in Italian, so I'm not absolutely certain what he said."
Pope Francis journeyed to the G7 Summit in Apulia following his audience.
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Torsten Sträter shared his initial thoughts about receiving the invitation, stating, "I thought it was a prank one of my peers had invented." Hazel Brugger expressed her admiration for the Vatican's approach to humor, commenting, "I'm impressed that the Vatican values humor and provides a platform for it in our current society."
During the audience, Michael Mittermeier joked, "This could be my most critical performance yet; I'm vying for a spot in heaven." The famed US comedian Chris Rock also attended the event, adding to the star-studded gathering.
Jimmy Fallon, another notable American entertainer, noted, "My interaction with Francis was brief, and he spoke in Italian, so I'm unsure of exactly what he said." Following his meeting with the comedians, Pope Francis traveled to Apulia for the G7 Summit.
