The world’s largest Catholic nation, the Philippines, greets Pope Francis today as he begins a five-day visit to one of the world’s fastest growing as well as changing nations. In addition to being home to 80 million Catholic, the Philippines is also a social media capital. Some 86% of Philippine residents use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other platforms. Naturally, there has been an outpouring online, as well as on the streets of Manila, ahead of the papal visit today. Here are some of the ways they are showing their devotion:
1. Selfies
Those that can’t beat the crowds to actually see Pope Francis are posing with cut outs and other incarnations of him instead. Some schools in Manila have set up selfie booths to encourage students to celebrate the visit.
2. A papal app
Local bishops have created an app for people to share photos, send messages to the pope, track his whereabouts, or post on a “prayer wall.”
3. Commemorative everything
4. Waiting, waiting….and waiting to greet him
City authorities have recommended police and others to wear adult diapers as they spend hours waiting for a glimpse of the pope.
