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Pope urges followers to drive 'humble' cars

Over the weekend, Pope Francis urged his flock to drive "humble" and avoid ostentatious cars. According to Reuters, the Potentate commented that "It hurts me when I see a priest or a nun with the latest model year car, you can't do this."

The statement is being seen as part of His Holiness' push to have the Catholic Church be more austere and expend more effort helping the less fortunate. Pope Francis acknowledged that automobiles are often necessary to do work, but urged his followers to contemplate "how many children are dying of hunger in the world" when contemplating getting a nicer set of wheels.

Pope Francis, who assumed the Papacy in March from Pope Benedict, has reportedly taken steps to practice what he preaches, including moving into a guest home in the Vatican instead of his predecessor's "opulent papal apartments." Other reports indicate that Pope Benedict's own choice for transportation within Vatican City is a modest Ford Focus.

Earlier this month, Pope Francis was personally given the keys to a new Popemobile during a meeting with Mercedes-Benz boss Dieter Zetsche (seen above). The modified M-Class features additional security and visibility measures necessary for keeping the religious leader safe in large crowds outside of Vatican City's walls. Pope Francis also received a Smart eBike from Daimler along with the new Popemobile.


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